30 January 2002 Australia Day Citizen of the Year Trudy Mallouk Volunteer Extraordinaire Top Photo.. Volunteer Extraordinaire Trudy Mallouk - Australia Day Citizen of the Year Bottom photo.. Helen and Alan Whelpton, Walgett Shire Australia Day Ambassador with Councillor Joan Treweeke and Mayor Peter Waterford

As the International Year of the Volunteer drew to a close in 2001 and 2002 heralded the "Year of the Outback" it was fitting that tribute be paid to our tireless volunteers with the grant of awards at the Walgett Shire Australia Day celebrations.

For Mrs Trudy Mallouk her announcement as Walgett Shire Citizen of the Year was met with a modest response from a lady who, no doubt, was the silent achiever focusing her time and effort upon the realisation of the magnificent Olympic Pool and Theme Park, Indoor Diving Pool and Sporting Complex at Lightning Ridge.

Always there, Trudy has displayed a spirit that fires the survival of many rural communities. Playing host to the celebrations, Lightning Ridge welcomed their amiable ambassador Alan Whelpton and wife Helen, together with guests from the area to their well organised celebrations. Introduced by Mayor, Peter Waterford, Mr Whelpton outlined his close affinity with the life saving association.

One of 180 Australia Day Ambassadors, Alan wanted to be part of and see what Australia is really about.

"Australia is the friendly country where we give the other guy a go," he said before sharing some of his fondest memories with the large gathering.

Our newest Australians Citizens, Mrs Alison McMahon, Mrs Eva Peterson, Mrs Rodelia Righini and Mr and Mrs Dennis and Hilda Underwood had their citizenship conferred upon them in a brief ceremony by Mayor Peter Waterford.

A fitting conclusion for those who chose, was a joint verbal affirmation of their loyalty to Australia.

Australia Day 2002 was a memorable occasion, a particular highlight being the very talented Patrick Small's presentation of Advance Australia Fair (both verses).

With officialdom foregone community members from throughout the Shire mingled enjoying both the entertainment and refreshments provided by community service groups.

And, of course, Clancy, The Black Opal Advocate's clown, made a guest appearance distributing lollipops and being captured in fun shots.