For the second year in a row, Kiama Council’s Australia Day Citizen, Young Citizen and Senior Citizen awards have all gone to women in our community.

With inclusion and diversity as a passion, Soul Fit Co’s exercise instructor and wellness coach, Korin Koutsomihalis, has been awarded Citizen of the Year for her sincere involvement in, and contribution to, the wholistic health and wellbeing of our local community.

Working to break down the bias in what’s considered to be normal in fitness communities, Korin says, “Everyone should be able to move and do it together.

“There are so many people left behind because they feel like they shouldn’t be moving. My passion is to move others, people of all ages and all backgrounds, and for them to have the best possible life, which for me is through moving your body.”

The Senior Citizen of the Year award has gone to the much loved member of Gerringong community, 102 year old Bev Sherwood, who continues to be a role model and inspiration to many.

Age is simply just a number for Bev as coincidentally she is a regular in Korin’s studio and continues to be a colourful sight on her daily walks along Werri Beach with her dog. She also remains an active member in the community, participating in the Gerringong Christmas Parade, the Rotary Club and raising money for Camp Quality.

Seventeen year old Ava Snelling has been awarded Young Citizen of the Year for her passion and commitment to community sport.

Not only has Ava competed with Kiama Downs Netball Club and made six consecutive grand final appearances, she has also raised her hand multiple times to help as a coach and umpire.

“If you love your sport, you will do anything for it and that’s what I’ve done. I love to be involved and help out whenever I can,” Ava says.

In long overdue recognition, Kiama Surf Life Saving Club’s Jet Rescue Boat has received the Community Group of the Year award.

After 47 years of saving countless lives through patrolled actions and emergency callouts, the Boat was disbanded last year. It played a part in some of the region’s major rescues and was a massive help in providing bushfire support and flood relief.

The Awards will be presented at tomorrow's official Australia Day Ceremony at Gerringong Town Hall, from 9am.

Kiama’s 2023 Australia Day Ambassador and guest speaker will be world superbike champion Warwick Nowland who, with his athletic and persistent nature, is a two time Endurance World Champion.

Other activities are happening throughout the LGA: Start planning your Australia Day