Australind’s Lot 208 Youth Inc celebrates after receiving 2024 Shire of Harvey active citizenship award

An Australind community group has been recognised for its commitment to young people with the 2024 Shire of Harvey active citizenship award.

Lot 208 Youth Inc was the only organisation to receive the honour on Australia Day for providing a safe place for the council’s young residents to meet, socialise and develop skills.

Manager Avani Shah said it was “a proud moment” for the group.

“Lot 208 Youth Inc is thankful to the Shire of Harvey for the recognition,” she said.

“Continued support from the community and active participation of youth members during the youth programs, excursions and events is the driving force for Lot 208 Youth services.”

Attendees of the organisation’s Mulgara Street centre and programs are guided by qualified youth workers and volunteers.

Ms Shah said participation was growing consistently, with increasing diversity.

“The youth program offers a safe and inclusive place for the youth within the community,” she said.

The organisation is eager to welcome new members, with its array of youth programs, events and excursions set to continue this year.

It is the second major accolade Lot 208 has received in the past year, after being recognised with the community group award at the Shire of Harvey community awards night in June.

Fellow awards night recipient Taya Larkman also received another accolade on Australia Day, being recognised as the shire’s young community citizen of the year for her leadership within Our Lady of Mercy College and extensive volunteer work.

Lot 208 board member of 17 years Joanne Campbell was recognised as community citizen of the year for her long service with the organisation and the Parkfield Primary School P&C, while fundraising powerhouse Linda Williamson received the same award.

The senior community citizen of the year award was shared between Wendy Maslin and Ross Ditchburn.

Ms Maslin helped co-found the Bunbury Relay for Life fundraiser in 2003, which has raised over $4.5 million since for the Cancer Council. She also was involved in the creation of the Australind Family History Society in the 1980s, and currently serves as an ambulance volunteer and Smart2Ask committee member.

Mr Ditchburn, a former Carlton footballer and Wheatbelt farmer, has served as chairman of The Regional Men’s Health Initiative for the past six years and has delivered numerous public speeches to encourage hundreds of men to be proactive with their physical and mental health.