The winners of the 2024 Byron Shire Community Awards are…
Published on 07 August 2024
The 2024 Byron Shire Community Awards is a celebration of local champions - people who do outstanding things out of kindness, generosity and love.
On 6 August, among family and friends, Council recognised the significant contribution they have made to the Byron Shire community.
A total of 36 nominations were received across the eight categories for this year’s awards.
Maree Eddings is the 2024 Byron Shire Community Member of the Year for her work to oppose a decision by an aged care provider in early 2023 to close Feros Village, a residential aged care facility at Byron Bay.
“Maree, a relative of one of the residents and a member of the Mullumbimby and District Neighbourhood Centre, along with other concerned relatives, formed the Friends and Families of Feros Residents Group,” Byron Shire Mayor, Michael Lyon, said.
“Maree and the group saved the facility from closure to the relief of residents, and it now operates as St Andrews Village Byron Bay, a newly renovated residential care service for 40 people.
“What a privilege it is to present Maree with her much-deserved award in recognition of her quest for fairness, kindness, compassion and sensitivity for the residents of Feros Village Byron Bay.
“Congratulations Maree, and the other award recipients and many thanks to the people who nominated them and shared their achievements with us,” Mayor Lyon said.
The award winners in other categories are:
Access and Inclusion Award – Deb and Mark (Mono) Stewart
Deb and Mark Stewart this year organised Australia’s first Adaptive Surf Championship (Blackmores Australian Adaptive Surf Championship) which was held in Byron Bay in March, attracting 94 athletes from 17 countries.
Deb and Mark showcased access and inclusion principles demonstrating what is possible when the beach is accessible for everyone.
Caring for Country Award – Delta Kay
Delta’s nomination recognised her work over many decades as a guiding force for education, custodianship and advocacy for caring for country.
Through her work she has raised awareness among school communities, residents and visitors from around the globe and her work with ‘Country as Teacher’ empowers young First Nations leaders to feel proud and confident in their Aboriginal identity and become the next generation of custodians of country.
Contribution to Health and Wellbeing Award – Kate Jackson
Kate, through her organisation Haus of Amour has spent much of the last 18 months supporting women impacted by domestic violence. Haus of Amour helps women move forward and rebuild their lives away from violence.
She offers a free, personalised styling service providing clothes, styling sessions and support to help address the impact of domestic violence on survivors.
Creativity Award – Janet Swain
Many people in the Byron Shire have been touched by Janet Swain and her love of music. Janet has established local community choirs, organises Choir4aDay events and singing workshops, along with the annual Brunswick Heads Christmas carols.
She rallied local musicians to organise After Disaster, a post-flood community event, and teaches young singers at The Pocket Public School.
In Business for Good – Good Vibes Organics and Creative Capital
There were two winners in this category.
Good Vibes Organics at Ocean Shores is committed to stocking organic, local and ethically sourced products.
In 2022, during the floods, Good Vibes remained open, allowing customers to get food without paying for it because many people did not have access to cash.
Creative Capital is a strong advocate for community projects especially those that address housing stress and homelessness.
Creative Capital is a strong supporter of the Fletcher Street Cottage in Byron Bay.
Community Initiative of the Year – Breakfast service at Fletcher Street Cottage
Fletcher Street Cottage, in Byron Bay is a safe and welcoming place, providing breakfast for people experiencing homelessness.
With more than 60 volunteers, Fletcher Street Cottage also provides access to showers, access to laundry services and office support.
Young Community Member of the Year – Monet Shortland
Monet is an environmental activist who is passionate about engaging with young people to create solutions to protect the ocean and marine life.
She is co-founder of Ocean Voices, an organisation that empowers young people to advocate for ocean health and has been a volunteer at BayFM for more than two years.