Residents hail Australia Day

Shire residents were out in force to enjoy an unusual Tuesday public holiday for Australia Day this week.

While the national debate continued around how to include marginalised communities and acknowledge the dark days of the colonial era, celebrations in Augusta, Margaret River and Cowaramup were upbeat.

Gunfire breakfasts co-ordinated by local clubs were welcomed by those who turned out early.

At Pioneer Park, the Cowaramup Lions Club held its annual Col Duggan Citizen of the Year Awards, with Lions Op Shop mainstay Lorna Duggan singled out for top honours this year.

A volunteer at the Lions shed since 2009, Mrs Duggan has also been the benefactor of many local charities, including vesting land for the town’s Lions village.

On receiving the award during Tuesday’s gunfire breakfast festivities, Mrs Duggan immediately said she didn’t deserve it — which was roundly met with cheers of appreciation from residents.

Local basketball star, surf lifesaver and athlete Lachlan Murray won the Lions’ young achiever award, with vice-president Bob Webster citing a three-page list of the young man’s awards and honours.