St John Ambulance volunteer Peter Aitchison named Narrogin’s citizen of the year at Australia Day ceremony

St John Ambulance volunteer Peter Aitchison was named the Shire of Narrogin’s citizen of the year on Australia Day. The Shire held its community breakfast on the lawns at the John Higgins Community Centre, where seven new Australians were officially granted citizenship. Agricultural Region MLC Steve Martin and Shire president Leigh Ballard presented four citizen of the year awards. Mr Aitchison was presented with the citizen of the year award for his volunteer work with St John Ambulance over nearly 25 years. He was also recognised for his contributions to community sport, cancer research fundraising and as a former youth group leader and pastor at the Baptist church. “There were five of us up for nomination and they were all very worthy people of the award and in that company I was very surprised when my name got called out,” Mr Aitchison said. “I think it’s nice to be recognised for the contribution you make not just to certain organisations but to the town itself.” Jayeisha Ford was named the youth community citizen of the year for her work as a positive role model and leader at her school. Ms Ford volunteers her time at community and sporting events, and also fundraises for cancer research. The senior community citizen of the year award was presented to Evelyn White for her volunteer work at the Old Courthouse Museum and her participation in community groups. Ms White acts as a tour guide and local historian, sharing her knowledge with visitors. The team behind the 2021 Narrogin Agriculture Show was awarded the active citizenship award for its dedication to organising the show. Narrogin Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service’s Cameron Hayes and William Davey received National Emergency Medals at the ceremony.