General News
26 January, 2023
Carisbrook achievements recognised
Reflection on what it means to be Australian — now and in the future — was a key theme noted at Carisbrook’s Australia Day celebrations on Thursday. A crowd of approximately 60 gathered at Market Reserve to enjoy music and the Lions’...
Reflection on what it means to be Australian — now and in the future — was a key theme noted at Carisbrook’s Australia Day celebrations on Thursday.
A crowd of approximately 60 gathered at Market Reserve to enjoy music and the Lions’ barbecue prior to the commencement of official proceedings, which included speeches from Australia Day Ambassador Jackson Barby, Tullaroop Ward councillor Anna De Villiers, Carisbrook Historical Society president Alex Stoneman, and Carisbrook Lions Club Australia Day event organiser George Nagy.
The day was highlighted by the Jack O’Connor Mayor of the Day award which went to Kevin Koop in recognition of his numerous volunteer contributions to the Carisbrook cricketing community.
Kevin has been the sole curator of the Carisbrook Recreation Reserve for more than 50 years, has held executive positions at the club, and has also played, coached, and umpired.
He has also been a football umpire, volunteered services to build the Carisbrook Tennis Club rooms, and been involved with submissions to move the Carisbrook Bowling Club to the Carisbrook Recreation Reserve.
In December Kevin was recognised by Cricket Victoria, awarding him a 50 Year Service Award. He also received a Tilly Aston Achievement Award at the 2006 Carisbrook Australia Day event.
“Thanks for the nomination from the cricket club — I’m glad you appreciate what I try to do for you all, and it’s fantastic to see a lot of you here today with your uniforms on,” Kevin said on Thursday.
“I certainly didn’t expect to gain this award but I’m honoured and humbled to receive such an accolade to be Mayor of the Day.
“If I had a crystal ball, I would not change anything that I’ve achieved for this community and I really think I’ve tried my best and done the best I possibly could.”
Jenni Newton-Farrelly and Nancy Egan were joint-winners of the Tilly Aston Awards.
Jenni received the award for her contributions as a volunteer in several local community organisations, and as being an active citizen of the town.
Nancy was awarded for her significant community contributions including with the Carisbrook Fire Brigade, Carisbrook Historical Society, and Biker Charity Support Group.