INDEPENDENT magazine group HAWKESBURY • HILLS • BLACKTOWN
INDEPENDENT magazine group HAWKESBURY • HILLS • BLACKTOWN
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LOCAL LIFE
Blacktown celebrates outstanding
Australia Day Award recipients
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Blacktown’ s Australia Day celebrations once again shone a spotlight on the extraordinary individuals and groups who quietly and sometimes loudly make our community a better place. The 2026 Blacktown City Australia Day Awards recognised a diverse group of recipients whose commitment, leadership and generosity reflect the very best of our city.
Taking out Citizen of the Year, Mayor Chagai’ s journey is one of resilience and inspiration. A South Sudanese refugee and founder of the Savannah Pride basketball club, which plays at PCYC Mount Druitt, Mayor Chagai has been far more than a coach. Through sport, he has become a mentor and leader, instilling discipline, ambition and a strong work ethic in young people helping to positively change many lives along the way.
The Senior Citizen of the Year award was presented to Kerri Meyer-Gleaves, who has devoted around 50 years to Blacktown District Girl Guides. A tireless volunteer, Kerri has supported countless Guide events and fundraisers, including domestic and international jamborees, leaving a lasting legacy of service and leadership across generations.
Recognised as Young Citizen of the Year, Jamison Dustin has already made an impressive impact. A former
Blacktown City Council Youth Ambassador, Jamison has worked to ensure young people’ s voices are heard. He is also a proud member of the Australian Air League City of Blacktown Squadron and was named Air League Federal Cadet of the Year an outstanding achievement.
Environmental Citizen of the Year Robert Kefford was honoured for his dedication to improving Duncan Park at Seven Hills. For years, Robert has spent countless mornings caring for the park’ s landscape, creating a welcoming space for both people and wildlife.
The Community Group of the Year award went to the 202 Blacktown Army Cadet Unit. Run entirely by volunteers, the unit is one of the largest in Australia and plays a vital role in fostering discipline, leadership and national pride among young people.
Rounding out the awards, the
Mayor Chagai with Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting and receiving Australian citizenship in 2025.
Community Event of the Year was awarded to the Hindu Council of Australia for the ever-growing Deepavali Festival at Blacktown Showground. Attracting around 20,000 people, the event showcases cultural performances, traditional cuisine and spectacular light displays, celebrating unity through diversity.
Congratulations to all recipients- your contributions truly embody the spirit of Blacktown.
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4 ISSUE 59 // FEBRUARY 2026 theindependentmagazine. com. au BLACKTOWN CITY INDEPENDENT