A 22 year Rotary veteran and a young United Muslim Migrant Association (UMMA) Centre volunteer, were among Manningham’s leading community members honoured at the 2021 Manningham Civic Awards.
Following its cancellation in 2020, this year’s Manningham Civic Awards were announced on 29 October in a scaled-down, COVID-safe event.
Manningham Mayor Cr Andrew Conlon said the Award recipients were chosen from a committed group of nominees, all of who have helped made Manningham a stronger community.
“Manningham is such a great city because of our people and community groups who chip in and make it a great place to live,” he said.
“We’re extremely lucky we have people, organisations and community groups that are dedicated to our community and helping others.”
Nominations for five award categories were open to everyone, from organisations making a difference in communities, tireless volunteers and social leaders, to community groups building capacity and outstanding performance in sports.
Citizen of the Year – Ian Goldsmith
Known as an outstanding leader in the community, with a commitment to community service and voluntary work, Ian Goldsmith has impacted the lives of many. As Board Chairman of the Manningham Community Enterprises Ltd and President of Rotary Club of Manningham, he’s used his position to help people experiencing disadvantage, people with disabilities, older adults and young people in our community.
Young Citizen of the Year – Sulaymaan Hafeez
As well as completing Year 12 in a challenging year, Sulaymaan didn’t stop serving his community. He is Vice Captain at East Doncaster Secondary College, a member of the Youth Advisory Council at Manningham Youth Services and a volunteer at the United Muslim Migrants Association Doncaster Mosque where he ensures patrons adhere to COVID-safe requirements, assist older adults with IT access and mentors younger students.
Volunteer of the Year – Patricia Wheeler
Every fortnight for more than 30 years, Pat has played piano for residents at MannaCare during Sunday Services. Recognising her music has an impact on older people, she also plays for residents at the Roseville Retirement Village. An avid volunteer, Pat has been a foster parent to five children in the 70s and knit prostheses for Knitted Knockers Australia for women who have undergone mastectomies.
Sports Achiever of the Year – Roland Frasca
Roland ‘Rolly’ Frasca first joined Doncaster Junior Football Club (DJFC) in 2011 as a parent and coordinator of its Auskick Program. After his children grew up and found other interests, he remained as coach to young children, later joining the committee to manage registrations and became Grounds Manager. Rolly truly embodies the community spirit through his contribution to the club.
Community Achievement Award – Manningham State Emergency Service
Manningham SES has a long and proud history, providing 24 hours, seven days a week volunteer support to the community during times of storms and floods. Not only do volunteers spend endless hours learning new skills and maintaining their competencies, they also educate the wider community in preparation for natural disasters. They are called on to provide support to Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, Fire Rescue Victoria, Country Fire Authority and to assist council at community events.
To read more about the 2021 Manningham Civic Awards winners, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/civic-awards
