Devoted Local Receives Australia Day Honour

1 February 2022

A GENEROUS but covid-friendly crowd of 200 gathered in Victoria Park last Wednesday and saw devoted local, Richard “Dick” Hudson receive the Australia Day honour of Citizen of the Year for 2022. 

Inverell Shire Council’s Mayor, Paul Harmon says the Citizen of the Year Award recognises an individual who consistently involves themselves in the Inverell community.

“Each year, the Australia Day Committee calls for nominations of local heroes who devote their time and efforts to the Inverell community.”

Cr Harmon says Mr Hudson’s sheer dedication to the Inverell community was what earned him this well-earned pat on the back.

“Dick’s volunteer involvement in the community has traversed environmental, sporting, cultural, church and community service, where he has expressed a limitless dedication to fulfilling voluntary roles in these facets.”

“Always offering up his time, Dick as been involved with a number of community initiatives, including the development of May Street Park, benefaction to the Inverell’s Got Talent competition, and continuous involvement in working bees to support local community groups.”

Whether it be small jobs or large projects, Mr Hudson has always been known to put his hand up and fulfil all voluntary roles with pride.

“From lawn and building maintenance, gardening and ground-keeping, to organising events from start to finish and providing transport to medical appointments for fellow parishioners, Dick’s loyalty lies in assisting the Inverell community.”

The Australia Day festivities in Victoria Park were a great success, kicking the morning off with a barbecue breakfast thanks to the Inverell Macintyre Lions Club, followed by live entertainment, the Welcome to Country delivered by Uncle Kelvin Brown, and speeches from special guests Adam Marshall and Australia Day Ambassador, Chief Inspector Bob Fitzgerald.

“It was great to see so many community members coming out to reflect, respect and celebrate what it means to be Australian,” Cr Harmon said.

Keep up to date with Council’s community events by following our Facebook page or check out our website.

Australia Day Ambassador, Chief Inspector Bob Fitzgerald, pictured with 2022 Citizen of the Year, Richard “Dick” Hudson, and Mayor Paul Harmon.

For further information, contact: 
Inverell Shire Council | PO Box 138 | Inverell NSW 2360 | (02) 6728 8288 | council@inverell.nsw.gov.au