Community Recognition Awards presented to local legends

The recipients of the City of Launceston's 2024 Community Recognition Awards were announced last night at a special ceremony at Town Hall.

The annual awards recognise community members and event organisers who have made a significant contribution the Launceston municipality.

This year the awards were presented in two categories — the Citizen Award and the Community Event of the Year Award.

The Citizen Award was presented to Aunty Judith-Rose Thomas, who has dedicated more than three decades to educating through her mentoring in school and child care learning environments, community projects and workshops.

The Community Event of the Year Award was presented to the Lapidary Club of Northern Tasmania's 2023 Launceston Gem & Mineral Show.

This successful event was organised by a club of hard-working volunteers of all ages, resulting in a vibrant, engaging and educational experience for all participants.

The small group of volunteers managed tickets sales, facilitated special talk events, oversaw the raffle, organised a children's colouring competition tailored for three different age groups, manned the information table, and supervised the outdoor working sluice area.

An estimated 3500 attendees over two days enjoyed the event, discovering the wonders of the earth sciences.

City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said the awards paid tribute to the outstanding efforts of our fellow community members.

"The City of Launceston has been recognising those who go above and beyond every year since 1986, and I'm honoured to continue this important tradition by presenting awards to two very worthy recipients," Mayor Garwood said.