MIRBOO Country Development Inc. hosted the Australia Day Event in Mirboo North which was held at the Baromi Centre at 10.30am on Sunday.
Joint winners were announced this year for the “Citizen of the Year Award”, presented to Dianne (Di) Kiddell and Colin Murray. Both recipients have been tireless volunteers within the community over many years.
Di with her work on the original steering committee to set up St Andrew’ Child Care Centre which opened in 2006 and her efforts in setting up the Community Kitchen which operated over many years in Mirboo North until Covid hit. She continues her work with coordinating the community bus service for the Mirboo North & District Community Foundation and her involvement with the Pastoral Relations Committee of Presbytery of Gippsland.
Di has helped with the growth and development of the Mirboo North community helping with a place for children and women to learn and helping people and families to connect within the community.
Colin has committed to serving with the CFA for the last 15 years, not only for the local community but being part of a strike team from Mirboo North travelling to various parts of Victoria during the fire season.
Colin’s true community spirit showed immediately after the devasting storms in Mirboo North in 2024 where he worked tirelessly helping members of the community in need.
In addition to his work with the CFA he is an active non-uniform volunteer with the Mirboo North Scout Group which he first joined in the 60’s. He is responsible for the Scout Hall maintenance, attends Cuboree Camps and offers a helping hand with the Scout’s BBQs, and works with the youth within the group.
Mirboo North Italian Festa won the Event of the Year. This event showcases the dedication of local volunteers who create a high-quality experience filled with Italian food, dance, music and is a family friendly event with many activities like grape stomping and many stalls with activities, including cooking demonstrations.
The true impact of the Festa this year became evident in the aftermath of the storm, with power and communications being severely disrupted. Many of the volunteers rallied to provide essential supplies and services to those in need.
The Italian Festa is more than just a day of celebration, it has become a cornerstone of the community, proving that bonds are formed through food, friendship, and shared experiences.
Brian McDermott and Tony Ebeyer from the Mirboo North CFA were guest speakers of the event where they recognised the value of volunteers to the CFA. Morning tea was served after the announcements, provided by the Mirboo North Cricket Club.
