Aussie of the Month impresses Governor General on Australian Citizenship Day
Aussie of the Month launches at South Newman Primary with the Governor General
Australian Citizenship Day is celebrated each year Nationally on 17 September. It’s a special day to reflect on and celebrate our common bond of being an Australian citizen and how together, we create our shared future. It’s also an opportunity, no matter where each of our own personal stories as Australians began, to feel a sense of belonging and unity.
To coincide with Australian Citizenship Day, in collaboration with Auspire, South Newman Primary School hosted Their Excellencies, The Governor-General and Mrs Hurley to officiate over a Citizenship Ceremony for 18 new Aussies and launched Aussie of the Month as the school acknowledged its first Aussie of the Month recipient.
Aussie of the Month is a primary school recognition program presented by Auspire – Australia Day Council WA with funding support from the Department of Home Affairs. It recognises personal endeavour, achievement and contribution to the community and reflects some of the values we share as Australians, such as fair go, mateship, respect and inclusion.
“This is a tremendous honour for our students and staff at South Newman Primary, not only hosting The Governor-General and Mrs Hurley whilst in the Pilbara, but also having them here to officially launch Aussie of the Month,” said Principal Katie Wallace. “Our students are thoroughly inspired by the program’s objectives of encouraging good citizenship and inclusive Australian values and very excited to have Her Excellency, Mrs Hurley announce our very first recipient.
“I’m very pleased to announce the first Aussie of the Month at South Newman Primary,” Mrs Hurley said.
“The Aussie of the Month is a terrific initiative. As a teacher, I know how important it is to recognise and celebrate outstanding behaviour, values and attitude and that’s what this award does.”
Aussie of the Month is run nationally by the same network that presents the Australian of the Year Awards. The Australian of the Year Awards profile leading citizens who are role models for us all, who inspire us through their achievements and community participation, and challenge us to make our own contribution to the community. Aussie of the Month reflects similar values and aims to encourage an appreciation of the diversity and depth of personal contribution and achievement possible within schools and bring about increased concern and consideration for all members of the school community.
The inaugural recipient for South Newman Primary is Sharniqua Tracey who received the recognition for her unrelenting commitment to helping others, encouraging and supporting her fellow students and her positive energy and attitude to give anything a fair go.
The program is no cost for schools to participate and sign-up is via aussieofthemonth.org.au