Mr Catanzariti was recognised for his extensive charity work – which has ranged from having his head shaved for Relay for Life to getting arrested to raise money for the Police Citizens Youth Club. 

“In the community we do all we can. If we can make the quality of life for someone each day a bit better, we’ve achieved [something]… and we’ll keep on doing it,” Mr Catanzariti said after he accepted the award from Griffith mayor John Dal Broi. 

Cr Dal Broi then awarded his local hero award to Trevor Ceccato, for more than two decades behind-the-scenes work in bringing the Griffith Citrus Sculptures to life. 

“I didn’t expect this at all, I’m just here to help this great town,” Mr Ceccato said. 

Cr Dal Broi noted Trevor was moved to tears when the citrus sculptures were damaged by vandals in 2017, such is his dedicated to the event. 

The Australia Day award ceremony was launched by Councillor Christine Stead at Griffith Regional Theatre on Thursday morning. 

Ms Stead introduced Australia Day Ambassador Chelsea Bonner to the stage – the revolutionary plus-sized model and entrepreneur who has aims to promote more diversity in the media and fashion world. 

Ms Bonner announced many of the award winners. Other category recipients were: 

Young Citizen of the Year – Daniella Collison

Junior Citizen of the Year – Jade Earl

 Community Event of the Year – Griffith’s Biggest Lap

 Sportsperson of the Year – Dean Gorman

 Junior Sportsperson of the Year – Blake Argus

Sports Team of the Year – Griffith Under 15 Representative Netball

Overall Sportsperson of the Year – Nathan Rowley

Club Person of the Year – Gordon Brown

The Australia Day awards were followed by a citizenship ceremony, in which 28 new migrants from eight countries pledged their loyalty to Australia.