By BEN CAMERON
A SOLEMN pledge made 40 years ago still holds true today for local scouting supremo Darren Spargo who was crowned the Cardinia Shire’s Citizen of the Year on Monday.
At Pakenham’s Cardinia Cultural Centre, which was packed both inside and out for the town’s official Australia Day ceremony, the District Commissioner for Cardinia was close to tears as he spoke of a life dedicated to doing the right thing.
“I’m stuck for words,” he said.
“It’s not fair that one person has to stand up here.”
He recalled a promise he made 40 years ago at his first cub scout meeting.
“I made a pledge to be loyal and obedient and not give into myself,” he said.
“I just love being able to give back to the community. If you want to make a difference, be part of a team.”
Social enterprise Outlook was crowned Community Organisation of the Year, accepted by chief executive officer Tony Fitzgerald.
“It’s a great honour,” he said.
“Australia Day is all about inclusion, the inclusion of people who are disadvantaged and disabled, it’s about giving them a fair go.
“That’s our culture (at Outlook).”
The Pakenham and District Agricultural and Horticultural Show took out the Community Event of the Year.
President Geoff Young said it was a fitting reward for the more than 120 volunteers who made the event happen each year.
“We’re horticultural and multicultural,” he said. “Everybody is welcome.”
Meanwhile Graeme Legg was named Senior Citizen of the Year, Holly Latter was the Young Citzen of the Year and Penelope Harris Jennings accepted the Community Service Award.
A total of 42 new Australians were also officially welcomed to the area at a citizenship ceremony.
Families from across the shire enjoyed barbecues, face painting, a jumping castle, poetry and entertainment as well as an animal farm and native plant giveaways.
