In typical Australian style, the sun shone and the smell of barbecue hung in the air as more than 300 congregated to welcome 10 new citizens to the country as well as celebrate a host of Griffith’s high achievers, recognised for their tireless community work.

Griffith Rotary Club kicked off the day with a big Aussie breakfast and the ceremony concluded with a morning tea provided by Griffith Soroptimists.

Community representatives, including mayor Mike Neville, council general manager Brett Stonestreet and federal member for Riverina Michael McCormack, mingled with the masses and gave inspiring addresses for the 30th official Griffith Australia Day ceremony.

Cr Neville, who was recognised as the city’s first junior citizen of the year three decades ago, said Australia Day was a great opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate all the hard work that people do to keep Griffith going.

Griffith’s Australia Day ambassador Cheryl Koenig, accompanied by her son Jonathan and husband Robert, thanked “the beautiful people” of Griffith for their hospitality and generosity.

“This area is truly captivating,” Mrs Koenig said.

“The Australia Day Council theme for this year is multiculturalism and the centenary of irrigation so this area really fits in well.”

Mrs Koenig has spent 14 years rehabilitating her son Jonathan, who suffered a traumatic brain injury at the age of 12.

Despite doctors predicting he would never walk, talk, or even eat again, Jonathan has completed his HSC, a TAFE course, and is learning to drive.

“There is nothing particularly special about me – I’m just a typical Aussie mum,” she said.

“But by sharing my story I let people know, with the right community and family support, you can do anything.”

- 2011 Junior Citizen of the Year: Luke Woodward

- 2011 Young Citizen of the Year: Cassandra

Campbell-Smith

- 2011 Community Event of the Year: La Festa Incorporated

- 2011 Citizen of the Year: Patricia and Ross Corner