At the citizenship event, Chris Castledine (Castle) was named Arts and Culture Citizen of the Year, Carmelein Fernandez named Young Citizen of the Year and Maximilian Brenner was announced the Sports Citizen of the Year.

“This is a well-deserved accolade for all of our winners and it is great to acknowledge their efforts and contribution to the City of Canada Bay on Australia Day,” Mayor Tsirekas said.

In addition to the Citizen of the Year announcements, Mayor Tsirekas welcomed 30 new citizens from Brazil, China, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Korea, Taiwan, Tanzania, United Kingdom and the United States at the Australia Day event at Cabarita Park.

He was joined by Australia Day Ambassador, and NRL administrator Todd Greenberg.

“Australia Day is a chance to come together and celebrate community spirit. Congratulations to all of our winners and to our newest citizens,” Mayor Tsirekas said.  

Michael has been a driving force with both Drummoyne Water Polo and Drummoyne Rugby.  He was instrumental in restarting the Drummoyne Rugby junior program (now boasting over 300 players) and instigating Greg Davis Day at Drummoyne Oval. Michael also took Drummoyne Water Polo from a social second division club to a National League team and is currently the Club Delegate to the National League.

Chris Castle is synonymous with our community events like Ferragosto and Concord Carnival. An entertainer and wonderful emcee, it is hard to imagine these events without Chris’s incredible dedication and personality.

Carmelein, a student at Domremy College, is a passionate advocate for youth rights and raising social/political issues in the community. She is also a skilled violinist and composer who has performed at numerous events including Ferragosto and Concord Carnival.

Max is an accomplished rower, who has represented Concord High as well as rowing for New South Wales and representing Australia in numerous State and International Rowing Regattas. He has won several awards including Sydney Rowing Club Young Rower of the Year in 2015.