Albany Citizen of the Year awards won by advocates for arts, mental health, the community and at-risk youth

Advocates for the arts, mental health, the community and at-risk youth have been recognised with awards by the City of Albany as part of Australia Day formalities.

Citizen of the year was won by Annette Davis for her contribution to the artistic life of Albany and her leadership of a group of local visual artists MIX Artist Incorporated.

During her two-decade association with MIX, Ms Davis has presented 15 exhibitions to the community, of which two contributed to the Perth International Arts Festival Great Southern and two were toured Statewide as a part of Art on the Move.

In 2022, Ms Davis’ achievements were recognised with her appointment as Lead Curator of the Open Borders Project, which provided a Statewide opportunity for regional artists to showcase their talent.

Albany mayor Greg Stocks said Ms Davis had an unwavering dedication to fostering creativity and unity that has inspired the local art community.

“Annette has spent 20 years bringing people together through art, including our local youth, and her advocacy for the visual arts scene in Albany has never slowed,” he said.

Young citizen of the year was awarded to Denika Favas for her continued work with the group Mid Week at Mids which promotes positive mental health through swims, coffee and conversation.

Ms Favas started the group in 2022 and it has grown over the past two years.

She has also initiated the Roundabout Run Club, which welcomes individuals at every running level and dedicates time volunteering with the Disabled Surfers Association Great Southern.

Olivia Roberts was senior citizen of the year for her commitment to improving the quality of life for others through her involvement with Kadadjiny Aboriginal Corporation and the South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council.

Ms Roberts co-founded KAC and is the chair of SWALSC’s cultural committee.

In both roles, she is a respected community connector and she continues to advocate strongly for health, education and justice.

The final community award was presented to STRYKA Fight Team for community group of the year.

The group provides a gym and support to at-risk young people.

“It has been another year of fantastic nominations and I applaud every single one of our nominated residents and groups across the five categories,” Mr Stocks said.

“Your dedication and commitment to enriching our local community is a true inspiration to all of us.”