An inspirational volunteer, a devoted sportsman, a golfing superstar, an inspirational dance teacher and an outstanding youth role model were honoured yesterday with the Bankstown Australia Day Awards as part of Council’s Australia Day celebrations.

The Mayor of Bankstown Clr Khal Asfour hosted a special recognition ceremony for the award recipients, where he also officially welcomed 12 of Bankstown’s newest citizens.

In his address to the recipients, Mayor Asfour also congratulated all this year’s nominees and thanked them for their commitment to making Bankstown a better place.

“As Mayor of Bankstown I take great pride in the fact that we are a community of heroes,” said the Mayor of Bankstown Clr Khal Asfour.

“The Bankstown Australia Day Awards acknowledge the men and women, young people, workers and volunteers advancing our city through their tireless efforts without the expectation of reward. Our winners and nominees are the best our community has to offer.”

“Bankstown’s Australia Day Awards are an integral part of our Australia Day celebrations and an opportunity for the community to say thank you.

“I would like to congratulate all our award recipients and nominees, your efforts are appreciated and symbolise the tremendous community spirit and caring nature that exists here in this wonderful city of ours,” Mayor Asfour said.

The winners of each award are:

Citizen of the Year – Elaine Crockett

Elaine has faced tremendous health challenges, including cancer, to emerge as one of Bankstown greatest silent heroes. Over the past three decades she has given generously of herself to innumerable committees and community organisations including: Bankstown Community Transport, Bankstown Hospital Network Committee, Bankstown Women's Cancer Support Group, Australian Air League Padstow Squadron, Sydney South West Area Health Service and Cancer Council's many fundraisers.

Young Citizen of the Year – Darinka Popadic

Darinka is an incredible role model for Bankstown's young people. She is heavily involved in many charitable activities, volunteers with the Scouts and serves as a member of Council's Youth Advisory Committee. Despite having to overcome learning challenges, Darinka completed the Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh and is currently working on attaining Gold.

Community Service Award – Frank Davies

Frank is an outstanding community member having volunteered for numerous charities since the 1960's, including Bass Hill RSL and the Cancer Council. He taught Tennis for 15 years at Bankstown De La Salle where he helped establish their soccer club and currently teaches Special Olympics Tennis. He also runs three table tennis tournaments each year for mental health sports, volunteers at major events and cares for many older residents on bus trips.

Sports Achievement Award – Peter Stojanovski

Peter is one of our prized up and coming sporting super stars. In November of last year he represented Australia in the Golf international World Championships in China where he placed fourth in his age group. Peter's sporting talent, dedication and passion for excellence is an inspiration to Bankstown's sporting community.

Sports Volunteer Award – David Wilson

David is currently holds the position of President at Bass Hill RSL Sub Branch Youth Club-Ballroom Dancing Group and is an outstanding teacher and mentor to the Club's young performers. He holds a distinguished track record of 21 years of service to the Club and has also served as Vice President and Youth Delegate.