Published on Monday, 29 January 2024 at 2:13:39 PM

Advocating for Albany’s local art scene with unwavering passion and motivation has won Annette Davis the Community Citizen of the Year Award 2024.

Annette was nominated for her contribution to the artistic life of Albany and her leadership of a group of local visual artists; MIX Artist Incorporated, which she has been a part of since 2004.

During her 20 years with MIX Artist Incorporated she has presented 15 exhibitions to the Albany community, six of which contributed to the Perth International Arts Festival Great Southern and two which were toured state-wide with Art on the Move.

Annette’s achievements were recognised in 2022 with her appointment as Lead Curator of the Open Borders Project, which provided a state-wide opportunity for regional artists to showcase their talent.

Albany Mayor Greg Stocks said Annette’s unwavering dedication to fostering creativity and unity 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.”

Denika Favas was awarded Young Community Citizen of the Year for creating the social group ‘Mid Week at Mids’ which promotes positive mental health through swims, coffee and conversation.

Denika also initiated the Roundabout Run Club that welcomes individuals at every running level, and she dedicates her time to the Disabled Surfers Association Great Southern.

Senior Citizen of the Year was awarded to Olivia Roberts, a proud Wirlomin Noongar Elder who has been recognised for her ongoing commitment to help others live a better quality of life.

Olivia co-founded Kadadjiny Aboriginal Corporation and chairs the Cultural Committee of the South-West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council. A respected community connector, she advocates strongly for health, education, and justice.

STRYKA Fight Team were awarded the Australia Day Active Citizenship Award for Community Group or Event Award for providing at risk young people with the chance to compete in combat sport.

“It has been another year of fantastic nominations and I applaud every single one of our nominated residents and groups across the five categories,” Mayor Stocks said. “Your dedication and commitment to enriching our local community is a true inspiration to all of us.”

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