Town of Port Hedland’s Australia Day community citizens of the year announced

The Town of Port Hedland has announced its 2022 community citizens of the year in their annual Australia Day awards.

Citizen of the Year was awarded to Rachel Mullins.

In addition to being a full-time primary school teacher, Rachel volunteers her time at SAFE Hedland as the cat coordinator.

In her role at SAFE, Rachel rescues animals that have been surrendered or strays from around town and links them with foster carers until they find their forever homes.

A strong advocate for animals and for SAFE, Rachel has also contributed greatly to fundraising for the animal rescue organisation to ensure they can continue to operate in Hedland.

Kohbi Barrow was awarded Young Citizen of the Year.

While Kohbi may only be 12 years old, his commitment to kindness and passion for putting an end to bullying knows no limit.

Kohbi has initiated and managed his own Pilbara based coffee lid project and subsequent events to raise awareness and money for Dolly’s Dream, who aim to reduce bullying and prevent youth suicide.

Kohbi’s first event raised more than $1000 and he was the only WA student to win a $1500 grant to expand his coffee lid project.

He was also recently nominated for the 7News Young Achiever Award.

Hedland Amateur Theatre Company, better known as HATch, was recognised in the Active Citizenship category.

Just over a year since it’s inception, HATch has been making waves in the Hedland community.

The theatre company aim to create a meaningful, challenging and safe space for ages and walks of life to participate in theatre, song and dance.

HATch also provides performance opportunities for their students at community events which ‘bring joy’, just as their motto states.

Town of Port Hedland Mayor Peter Carter commended this year’s nominees for exemplifying citizenship and contributing to the backbone of the Hedland community.

“I would like to congratulate everyone who was nominated for all your hard work in making our town a better place to call home,” he said.

“Australia Day is our time to reflect on the diversity of our community and thank those who selflessly give of their time.

“These awards are one of my favourite events on the calendar, as we get to shine a spotlight on the volunteer efforts that may go under the radar,” Mr Carter said.