THE woman at the helm of a service that supports some of the region’s most vulnerable people has been named Port Stephens’ Citizen of the Year.
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Lynn Vatner was named Citizen of the Year during the Raymond Terrace Australia Day festivities on Monday.
Ms Vatner, manager of the Yacaaba Centre at Nelson Bay, has worked to help women and families in crisis for more than 21 years.
Most recently she helped secured a new house for the centre and funding sources when changes to government funding threatened its future.
‘‘I feel overwhelmed,’’ Ms Vatner said on receiving the honour.
‘‘I feel very special, very honoured and very grateful that I came to this area years ago.
‘‘It has nurtured me and my family.’’
She said the nomination ‘‘came out of the blue’’ and, being away on holiday, she was not going to attend Monday’s ceremony until her staff prompted her to go.
Young Citizen of the Year went to Alannah Newell, 17, from Raymond Terrace.
Miss Newell’s on-stage acceptance speech demonstrated the maturity and grace of the teenager which, on top of her numerous volunteer and community roles, saw her nominated for the award.
‘‘I am so happy and proud I was even nominated,’’ Miss Newell said after hopping off stage.
‘‘I’m amazed that I won.’’
Liz Stephens and Adam Nicholson accepted the Raymond Terrace Multicultural Fiesta’s award for Event of the Year.
The Port Stephens Graffiti Action Team won the Port Stephens Service Award while the Port Stephens Medal went to the Tilligerry Peninsula’s Ian Barnett.
Young Sports Person of the Year was taken out by Medowie sailor Lachlan White, 16.
Vince Northwood, who has worked to keep hockey alive and well in Port Stephens, won Sports Person of the Year.
At the Bay, Chris Maidorn won the RAAF Williamtown Support Group Citizen of the Year award.
Mr Maidorn was recognised for the work he does as president of the Port Stephens Junior AFL Club.
Port Stephens Mayor Bruce MacKenzie said Australia Day was a fantastic occasion to honour those unsung heroes who selflessly give their time and effort for the benefit of others.
‘‘These people don’t go looking for accolades,’’ he said.
‘‘They do what they do because they are passionate about their involvement with the community.
‘‘This is our chance to literally get them up on stage and say thank you.’’