By Benjamin Millar
Seddon Deadly Sins cafe co-owner Chris Gooden has been recognised as Maribyrnong council’s 2019 Citizen of the Year.
The 2019 Maribyrnong Civic Awards recognised local individuals, businesses and organisations for contributions to the community that enrich the lives of others.
The winners were announced at an Australia Day ceremony at Footscray Town Hall on Saturday.
Mr Gooden was honoured for his advocacy for the LGBTIQ community, support of indigenous hospitality training and volunteer work feeding homeless people.
Local resident and historian Carmel Taig was the recipient of the 2019 Mayoral Award.
Peter and Lola Anderson were recipients of the Volunteer of the Year Award, recognising their years of dedication to improving Cruickshank Park.
Bilal Akalo – or “Coach Billy” as he is best known – received the Youth Leadership Award.
The Excellence in Arts Award went jointly to Kindred Studios and Jennifer Piper of theatre group wit incorporated.
Westgate Basketball Association was announced as the winner of the Active Maribyrnong Sporting Award.
Local not-for-profit organisation Westgate Community Initiatives Group received the Community Strengthening Award.
Enterprise Maribyrnong Award winners were Yarraville food manufacturing business Australasian Fresh, health services studios All for One and the Footscray Asian Business Association.
