St John stalwart the finest

Kylie Bailye says she is humbled to be this year’s Esperance citizen of the year.

The St John Ambulance volunteer received the award yesterday at Esperance’s Australia Day awards ceremony at Ralph Bower Adventureland Park.

Ms Bailye said she has been volunteering for the community’s emergency services for 25 years and was honoured to be presented with the award.

“When you sort of take the time to look back on what you’ve done over 25 years, it’s so many little dots that join together and create the overall experience of being a volunteer and we’re always evolving and always learning, and I’m quite humbled to receive the award today,” she said.

Ms Bailye now gets to watch other people thrive thanks to her role training new volunteers, and encouraged other members of the community to get involved with local organisations that supported the region.

“I’ve gone from bake sale where you’d make honey joys and chocolate crackles,” she said. “You will find your niche somewhere.”

There were 16 nominees across four categories for this year’s awards, with Connor Davies recognised as young citizen of the year, and Sally Ashbil and Jan McKenzie jointly receiving the senior citizen of the year award.

The winner of the active citizen award for an organisation or event went to the Esperance Education Support Centre students who are involved in various community events throughout the year.

Esperance Shire president Ian Mickel said this Australia Day was an opportunity for the community to look back on the challenges of the past year and celebrate the resilience shown.

“In the past year we have faced many challenges — drought, bushfire and even a global pandemic,” he said.

“Australia Day 2021 is a day for us to respect and thank the people in our community who selflessly and tirelessly give up their time to benefit others.

“We reflect on the resilience of communities and the spirit of helping, giving and supporting that defines us as Australians.”