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As Wakool Shire’s Citizen of the Year, Ian ‘China’ Gibson was recognised for his unwavering commitment to various local committees and groups.

He was announced as the shire’s top citizen at the recent Australia Day ceremony.

For many years China (pictured) has been involved in or promoted any events that have been of benefit to his home town of Moulamein and the wider community.

Despite a busy schedule running his property, he has always found time to be involved — and encourage others to be involved — in various community clubs and groups.

He was an integral leader in the Moulamein Lake redevelopment and drove the fundraising for the fish and fingerling restocking.

To this day he is still involved as treasurer of the Lake Committee.

China was also an instigator in the establishment of the Moulamein Grain Co-Operative of which he is still a director.

Other contributions include his role as captain of the Moulamein Town Fire Brigade, his role as a board member of the Moulamein Bowling Club, and his contribution as a passionate advocate for the local tennis club.

China also contributes a weekly commentary on all topical happenings in to Moulamein in the local newsletter.

Jacob Taylor was selected as Wakool Shire’s Junior Citizen of the Year for his strong leadership skills and the high standards he applies and demonstrates in various areas of his life.

Jacob has held various leadership roles throughout his schooling at Barham High, but more recently served as house captain, school captain and a student council representative.

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Wakool Shire’s Sporting Achievement of the Year recognised the Koondrook Barham River Raiders Colts’ grand Final win.

The nomination form read: The Colts team of 2011 is a great example of cross-generational bonding in a team environment, all working towards the ultimate outcome - the grand final win.

Sportsperson of the Year went to student Darcy Spinks for his outstanding efforts and many successes on the football field.

In 2011 Darcy represented Tooleybuc Central School as part of the Riverina South football team and was selected as a member of the NSW Under 15 Boys AFL team that competed at the National Carnival in Canberra.

Locally, he won the Under 15 boys league best and fairest and was named ‘best on ground’ in the grand final.

Darcy also trained with the Bendigo Pioneers Squad.

On top of his achievements, the talented teenager has played a pivotal role as a leader of his school’s Auskick program, where he supported junior students to develop their skills.

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The Community Event of the Year award went to Barham Koondrook PA&H Show.

It was recognised for its success as a community event, and for continuing to be an entertaining, well run show that meets the interest of the wider community.