Congratulations to our City of PAE Australia Day Award recipients for 2025. The Awards recognise, appreciate, and reflect upon the significant efforts of those remarkable individuals who contribute positively to our local community.
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR (joint)
- Peter Christopher OAM
Peter has dedicated much of his life to preserving maritime history. A founding member of the campaign to save the City of Adelaide Clipper Ship, he worked for 14 years to bring the ship from Scotland to Port Adelaide. The ship is currently undergoing restoration. Peter also played a key role in driving the vision for the Seaport Village at Dock 2 Port Adelaide.
- David Durant
David's involvement in the North Adelaide Basketball Club began in the 1960s when he played in the junior grades. Over his 32-year coaching career, he has managed around 3,000 games, coaching countless children and adults. He joined the club's management in 1992 until 2022 and has served on many executive committees.
OLDER CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
- Kathy Nelson OAM
Kathy has an extensive and dedicated history of leadership in sports administration, particularly in netball. she has been a member of the Premier's Women's Consultative Committee, plus Team manager of Contax Netball Club and the Adelaide Thunderbirds. She also served three terms as President of SA Netball as well as key roles at many local clubs.
YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
- Zachary Bartholomew
Zachary participates in the State Emergency Service, attending regular training and responding to callouts. He also serves as a Cub Scout Leader and committee member for multiple scout groups, where he organises training, fundraising and activities.
JUNIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
- Elliot Dippy
Thirteen-year-old Elliot has been a volunteer with the People and Pets Project for six months, giving up his weekends and school holidays to walk three dogs whose owners are unable to walk them regularly due to ageing or incapacity.
COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR
- Holi on the Beach
Organised annually by Amit Katiyar through the Indian Australian Art and Cultural Association, this is a vibrant celebration of the Indian festival of Holi. Since its inception in 2017, the family friendly event has grown to attract nearly 6,000 visitors a year.
EMERGING EVENT OF THE YEAR
- Miracle League Port Adelaide Baseball Club
Open to children with disability from ages 4 to 16, its aim is to remove the barriers preventing them from playing baseball while supporting them to make new friends, build their self esteem and be treated just like other athletes.
SERVICE TO COMMUNITY
- Lefevre Playgroup Volunteers
- John (Jack) Kelso
- Chris Evans