Hume council honoured some of its unsung heroes on Australia Day for the tireless service they offer their communities.
A 99 year old woman who helped thousands of Tullamarine residents hone their skills through practical workshops is Hume Council’s top citizen this year.
Dorothy ‘Esme’ Pigott was awarded the title of Citizen of the today just six weeks before her 100th birthday.
The Tullamarine resident co-founded the Tullamarine Community House in 1989 and has been on its management board ever since.
Hume Mayor Helen Patsikatheodorou said Mrs Pigott had given so much to her local community.
YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR NISAL LOCHONA KARAWITA
Hume’s 2016 Australia Day award winners. Pic of Nisal Lochana Karawita won Young Citizen of the Year. Photo by Damjan Janevski.
“Esme is one of our oldest residents, and she’s also one of our biggest contributors to the people of Hume,” Cr Patsikatheodorou said.
“This wonderful woman has changed lives through her dedicated service to a place that offers many services to people on low incomes.
“For more than 25 years, Tullamarine Community House has presented programs that help people to exercise, cook, make jewellery, and use computer software.
“It also assists families through playgroup, childcare and tax return support, and offers a men’s shed that enables participants to keep in contact with their friends.
“Esme has been a major force behind the Tullamarine Community House, and Hume owes her a tremendous debt of gratitude.
YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
Gladstone Park Secondary College student Nisal Lochana Karawita, 18, was named Hume’s Young Citizen of the Year for helping to set up support initiatives for other young people.
Among his many community endeavors, he volunteers for the Good People Act Now group, which campaigns to thwart domestic violence, with the assistance of the Banksia Gardens Community Centre in Broadmeadows.
Click here for more information about Hume Australia Day award recipients.
