Shellharbour City's Citizen & Young Citizen of the Year

Shellharbour City Council will announce the recipients of the Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year Awards during the 'Symphony by the Sea Twilight Concert' on Australia Day.

The Citizen of the Year is Lawrence Boyle, while the Young Citizen of the Year is Ryan Scheu.

Shellharbour City Mayor, Chris Homer, said the recipients had contributed immeasurably to the community and congratulated them on their achievements and selflessness.

"Both Lawrence and Ryan's nominations were extremely impressive. The calibre of nominees this year was of a very high standard so the Australia Day Committee had a tough time with their decision," Mayor Homer said.

"I congratulate Lawrence and Ryan and thank them for their service, which has benefitted countless people in our community," he said.

Mayor Homer will also officially welcome almost 30 new Australian citizens to Shellharbour City at two citizenship ceremonies being held during the morning on Australia Day.

They come from a wide variety of countries including Uzbekistan, Iraq, the United Kingdom, Serbia, South Africa, India, the Dominican Republic, Nigeria, Pakistan and Singapore.

Australia Day Award winners - Information

2021 Citizen of the Year - Lawrence Boyle

Laurie Boyle is a valued community member and life member of Warilla Barrack Point Surf Life Saving Club.

He dedicates his time to running the club through many roles, including secretary, public officer, vice president and volunteer lifesaver.

He gives his time to train and develop junior and senior members to ensure the ongoing success of the club and is always available to provide guidance and leadership.

Throughout 2021, Laurie also spent time supporting cancer research funding and providing care and support to other community members who struggled through illness, the pandemic and other adversity.

Laurie is a humble, selfless and generous man who continually sacrifices his own time for others in the Shellharbour City community.

2021 Young Citizen of the Year – Ryan Scheu

Ryan Scheu was the 2021 Warilla High School captain and was involved in many events and campaigns including the White Ribbon Campaign, promoting the importance of changing the way men treat women, and the Return and Earn Program where he and his team raised money for improvements within the school.

Ryan enjoys Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Taekwondo, earning blue and black belts, respectively. He is a leader and mentor to others in the sport.

Ryan is a fantastic role model for young people at Warilla High School and in the Shellharbour community.

Media enquiries: Kelli Wells 0448 361 008

Symphony by the Sea: https://www.shellharbour.nsw.gov.au/whats-on/council/symphony-sea