Seniors awards reward inspiring citizens for 25 years

Seniors and Volunteering Minister Robyn McSweeney today called for nominations for the 2011 Western Australian Seniors Awards.

In the past 25 years, the awards have acknowledged the vital contribution of seniors to the social, economic and cultural life of Western Australia.

Mrs McSweeney said that for a quarter of a century the WA Seniors Awards had celebrated the importance of seniors to their local communities and to WA.

"As the Minister for Seniors and Volunteering, I have been inspired by past winners and their outstanding commitment as active citizens in our community," she said.

"Their dedication, achievement and compassion over the years have provided the community with many benefits including their voluntary support for Government and non-government services, programs and activities."

The theme for this year's awards is 'Setting the Trend', acknowledging the role our seniors have played in leading the way as role models for younger generations to follow and inspiring others with their ideas, innovation and dedication.

Six different categories for individuals and organisations, culminating in the 2011 Burswood 'Senior of the Year', will again recognise the work of WA seniors and their commitment to others including:

·        The Community Award for voluntary work, and serving the community

·        The Intergenerational Award for working with children and young people under 25

·        The BeyondBlue Inspirational Award for Wellbeing for seniors who promote awareness of mental health messages for older people

·        The Westscheme/Council on the Ageing Champion for Seniors Award will be awarded to an individual of any age who works in a paid or voluntary capacity to improve the quality of life for seniors or retirees

·        The Bendigo Bank Active Ageing Leadership Award recognises a not-for-profit community group or organisation, local or State government agency or business for its innovative planning or response to the ageing population; including opportunities for seniors to lead full and satisfying lives.

·        The 2011 Burswood WA Senior of the Year, to be chosen from the first three categories.

The Minister encouraged people to nominate individuals and organisations for the WA Seniors Awards 2011, to provide recognition where it is due to selfless contributors to the community.

Nominations close 5pm on Friday, July 22 and can be made by contacting the Department for Communities on 6217 8700 or on their website http://www.communities.wa.gov.au