A RENOWNED Cohuna sports historian and a local youth event organiser have been recognised in the Gannawarra Shire Council’s 2022 Australia Day Awards.
Ross Bateman was named Gannawarra Shire Council’s Citizen of the Year during a civic reception held at Kerang last week, with Taylah Clements being presented with council’s Young Citizen of the Year Award.
“Gannawarra Shire Council congratulates Ross and Taylah for receiving their respective awards, and to all of the nominees for their continued generosity and contribution,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.
Mr Bateman has developed strong links to the Gannawarra’s sporting landscape, dating back to his time as a senior footballer and top grade cricketer.
It is his passion for sports history, however, for which the Cohuna resident was renowned.
“Ross’ greatest contribution to the Gannawarra has been his recording of sporting history, having spent five to seven hours per day, four to five days a week apart from short holiday periods, recording for posterity what may have been lost forever,” Cr Gillingham said.
“Clubs regularly contact Ross for historical facts, as well as individuals seeking knowledge of a long-gone family member.
“Ross is also a foundation member of the Cohuna Progress Association, an affiliate member of the Cohuna/Leitchville RSL Sub-Branch, a Cohuna Historical Society member and former Cohuna Golf Bowls Club bowls secretary.”
Taylah was recognised for her work with the municipality’s FReeZA committee during the past three years.
“Taylah always volunteers to provide young people in the Gannawarra and surrounds with opportunities to connect with their peers, increase youth wellbeing and provide safe and supervised youth events,” Cr Gillingham said.
“Taylah has helped organise many major events during this time, such as the Summerwave Music Festival, Rip and Dip Weekend and Neon Lights. These events required extensive effort and time commitments, which Taylah was always happy to meet.”
Mr Bateman and Miss Clements will also be recognised for receiving their respective awards as part of Australia Day celebrations occurring throughout the Gannawarra tomorrow.
Full reactions to the awards from recipients and finalists in next week’s issue of the Gannawarra Times.
