Singleton’s most outstanding citizens honoured at Australia Day

Published on 26 January 2023

Mayor of Singleton Cr Sue Moore with 2023 Citizen of the Year Mick McCardle and Young Achiever of the Year Lachlan Fleming.jpg

The 2023 Singleton Citizen of the Year and Young Achiever of the Year have been described as two extremely deserving recipients who are positive role models for the community at the 2023 official Australia Day ceremony in Singleton.

Singleton Citizen of the Year Mick McCardle is highly regarded for his leadership and ongoing advocacy as President of the Broke Residents Community Organisation and commitment to the recovery and resilience of the Broke community, while Young Achiever of the Year Lachlan Fleming is a passionate and determined volunteer who actively supports Singleton Legacy Group, as well as a successful athlete.

The announcement was livestreamed as part of the official ceremony at Singleton Civic Centre this morning, where 16 new Australians were welcomed in the Citizenship Ceremony and Dr Emma Beckett delivered the official Australia Day Guest Address.

Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore said it was wonderful to see so many people come out to celebrate Australia Day in Singleton at last night’s free family event, Twilight, as well as at today’s official proceedings.

“Australia Day is one of our most important community occasions when we come together to celebrate what we all have in common as Australians, and to recognise those people who make our community special,” she said.

“There could be no better civic duty as mayor than to present the Singleton Citizen of the Year and Young Achiever of the Year, and we’re very fortunate in Singleton to have so many residents who selflessly contribute their time and energy to making our community better for everyone, and any one of our nominees are worthy of this honour.

“I also extend my warmest wishes to our newest Singleton citizens — it’s a very special day for them and their families, and it’s always such a pleasure to share in their joy.”

She also paid tribute to the four outstanding nominees for the Citizen of the Year.

“It’s an absolutely honour to recognise the outstanding Australians among us that go above and beyond to make our community great,” Cr Moore said.

“I sincerely congratulate Mick McCardle on this prestigious honour — Mick is an incredible individual dedicated to the service and betterment of the Broke village and it’s my great privilege to acknowledge his ongoing commitment and hard work.

“I would also like to extend my warmest congratulations and thanks to our other nominees – Jessica Stewart, Trevor Stewart and Alan Lynch – for everything you do for our community.

“Today sends a great message to everyone who is lucky enough to call our area home that great trees do grow from roots here in Singleton, and through these awards we are able to shine a light on our high achievers to inspire others to reach high.”