Jhing, Ming and Mower Racing: Wakefield’s 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards announced
SINCE moving to Balaklava in 2011, Jhing Mojares has been at the heart of a flourishing community, working tirelessly to help others thrive within her district.
Jhing has been named Wakefield Regional Council’s 2022 Citizen of the Year for her incredible fundraising and community efforts in particular supporting Balaklava’s Filipino community and encouraging Filipino families to immerse themselves within local schools, sporting groups and community events.
Jhing regularly organises Asian/Filipino food stall days, with profits supporting those in need and local initiatives, such as the beloved Balaklava Nature playground.
Instead of celebrating her birthday in 2020, Jhing held a food stall to raise vital funds for the Kangaroo Island bush fires recovery.
“Working across a variety of Balaklava’s sporting clubs, Jhing and her family hold the Balaklava Basketball Club close to their hearts, always willing to lend a hand whenever needed,” Mayor Rodney Reid said.
For the first time in Council’s history the Award for Active Citizenship has been presented.
Owen artist Nyoman Sumadi, or more commonly known ‘Ming’, has been recognised for his inspiring artwork and community spirit.
“This is the first time we’ve presented this award and Ming truly encompasses the meaning behind it, with his active community efforts shown throughout our district,” Mayor Reid said.
Ming burst into Owen in 2018 bringing with him colour and passion, turning blank walls into masterpieces as his paintings weave and flow throughout Owen from street to street.
Projects such as the butterfly wings on the Owen Arms Hotel and the striking mural on the front of Owen Recycling Depot depicting beers and bottles can be seen as you drive through the town – all Ming’s handiwork.
“Ming has truly stamped his mark on the Wakefield Region bringing joy and wonder with all his works. Ming’s masterpieces have even begun stretching into the neighbouring towns of Hamley Bridge and Balaklava,” Mayor Reid said.
A battle for the ages brought thrills, spills and chills to the town of Brinkworth this year with the ‘Battle at Brinkworth’ Lawnmower race being waved the chequered flag as our event of the year.
“I was lucky enough to attend this great event at Brinkworth. The Brinkworth special projects group organised an excellent event bringing people from across the state, with local volunteers banding together for catering, marshalling and organisation of the event, showing the spirit of a town like Brinkworth,” Mayor Reid said.
Brinkworth Primary School oval was transformed for the event, creating a track for 30 keen racers, and enticing 500 spectators across the day.
All proceeds made from the day will be reinvested into future community events and projects in Brinkworth and surrounds.
Mayor Reid congratulated all award recipients and thanked those who had spent time nominating community members and groups.
Recipients will be honoured at our Australia Day ceremonies around Wakefield. The times will be advertised by Council in the new year.