Mullewa residents enjoy snags and fun in the sun on Australia Day

Mullewa residents recognised Australia Day with awards, snags and fun in the sun.

Ruby Knock was the first to jump into the local pool, despite the unseasonably cold weather attendees were met with as they rolled through the gates at 8am.

Soon afterwards, many other children found the bravery to hop in, with their teeth chattering every time they got out to grab some food.

Kristell Derschow and Debra Maher brought the family along to enjoy the well-attended day, although Ms Maher expressed some hesitation to throw her support behind the day.

“I don’t know if I would have come if it weren’t for kids,” she said.

Several local bigwigs attended, with Shane Love MLA presenting a plaque to bear all past, future and present citizen award winners’ names in the Mullewa council office.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn was the event’s main speaker, calling on guests to take Australia Day as a moment to reflect on “our proud, ancient and multicultural nation’s” history — both challenging and inspiring. He handed out several awards to citizens who went the extra mile in the close-knit Mid West town.

David and Cindy Goodwin won a community citizen award for their volunteer work with St John Ambulance.

Pat Weir, Glenn Bryant and Riley Curtis, 11, were also recognised at the event, and were described as dedicated community members, volunteers and friends.