Auburn Residents recognised
The Australia Day winners for 2012 were announced at a special presentation event at the Auburn Town Hall, 1 Susan Street, Auburn, on Tuesday 24 January 2012 at 6pm and acknowledged on stage at the Australia Day celebrations on 26 January 2012 at Bicentennial Park.
Mayor Oueik said: “These awards are a way for us to recognise the efforts of caring and dedicated community members. Our award winners are an inspiration to other community members and have made a difference to the lives of people in need.”
The winners are:
Local Citizen of the Year - WINNER
Fatma Mohamed
Fatma is a very active and committed member of the community and has provided support to the growing Somali community by:
• Visiting Somali women in the Villawood Detention Centre
• Establishing the first Somali language school at Auburn North Public School
• Setting up a Somali Women’s Group
She is the public officer and treasurer of Somali Welfare and Cultural Association and a member of the Auburn Small Community organisation network. Fatma is the driving force behind the Celebration of African Cultures Festival.
Young Citizen of the Year – WINNER
Bibi Goul Mossavi
Bibi is a young person who puts others before herself. After surviving a traumatic seven years in a Pakistan Refugee Camp, she has managed to become a gifted student who gives up her free time for the community. She has recognised at a young age that many people feel isolated and alone and visits sick elderly patients in Auburn Hospital to keep them company. Her other volunteer work includes helping recently arrived families enrol in language school by completing forms, collecting school fees and providing translation services.
Community Event of the Year - WINNER
Dooley’s Christmas Fair
Their annual Christmas fundraising event encourages social interaction and community engagement and is organised by Dooley’s staff who volunteer to work at the event. The proceeds raised at this event go to Westmead Children’s Hospital where they raised $25000 for the Oncology Unit.