The streets of Tatura were quiet on Monday morning, January 26, as hundreds of people filled Victory Hall to celebrate Australia Day.
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The morning kicked off with breakfast from the Tatura Lions Club before the flag raising ceremony began, led by the 38th Army Cadets and bagpiper Robin Sharp.
Following an opening blessing by Shirley Ferguson and the national anthem performed by Cindy Doherty, Tatura and District Australia Day Committee president Alex Ranson and emcee City of Greater Shepparton Councillor Rod Schubert opened the formalities.
The Tatura Citizen of the Year award went to John Sullivan for more than 50 years of service to the Merrigum Fire Brigade.
Still an active member, Mr Sullivan said he was humbled and honoured.
“I think this award recognises all the members of the various volunteer organisations I work with,” he said.
“I hope that the spirit of volunteer ethos continues because for whatever it costs you to put in, you gain far more out of it.
“I've thoroughly enjoyed working within my community, hopefully making a difference.”
Judy Forster was named Senior Citizen of the Year, primarily for her work as a founding and life member of the Tatura and District Historical Society.
She thanked the community for her nomination and encouraged locals to visit the museum.
The Community Event of the Year was awarded to Cameron Scorey for the Hussln Charity Car and Bike Show.
The event has raised nearly $17,000 over the past five years for causes like Beyond Blue and Shepparton FoodShare.
Mr Scorey said the event started out as a “simple car show” to welcome his business to town.
“I never knew it would grow into such a big event... promoting Tatura and the Goulburn Valley,” he said.
In the sporting categories, Matthew Rennie won the Sports Award.
A standout in basketball and football, Mr Rennie also made history with the Tatura Urban Fire Brigade, winning the senior hydrant race four years in a row at the CFA/VFBV state championships and remaining undefeated from 2018-2023, earning multiple state titles.
Dianne Downie took home the Senior Sports Award for her lifelong contribution and achievements to local sport, including table tennis, badminton and lawn bowls.
“Being recognised has made me realise how much sport has been a part of my life,” Ms Downie said.
“Sport in this town isn’t just about competing and winning, it’s about connecting with the community, building friendships and supporting one another.”
Two recipients earned overall Greater Shepparton honours.
Tanner Miller won the Junior Sports Award for his dedication to the Tatura Football and Netball Club and his selection for the 2026 Under-18 Murray Bushrangers.
Declan Tyson was named Young Citizen of the Year for his achievements in American football.
He’s represented Australia and earned a prestigious UK scholarship at 16, the youngest and only Australian selected.
“None of that would have happened without great coaches, supportive parents and a lot of banging into people,” he said.
“There are a lot of young locals doing great things in Tatura, and I’m really grateful to be standing here.”
Guest speaker Dom Bagnato then addressed the crowd, talking about his time growing up in Tatura, and the journey to his career in fashion design.
Find more coverage on Greater Shepparton’s Australia Day events in Friday’s News.