Australia Day Awards: Celebrating local people and their achievements

On Saturday 26 January, Mayor Robert Bria officially welcomed 41 new Australian citizens to the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters as part of the Council’s Australia Day celebrations.

“To the candidates for citizenship here today, this ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter your own life,” said Mayor Bria.

“Citizenship is about rights and responsibilities. It is a life-long invitation to participate in the cultural, economic and social life of the country you now call home. “

Federal Senator Marielle Smith read a message on behalf of the Hon Tony Burke, Federal Minister for Home Affairs, Immigration and Multicultural Affairs which was followed by each of the citizenship candidates taking the Oath of Allegiance or the Affirmation of Allegiance. Both express loyalty to Australia and its democratic values.

As part of the festivities, the Council also presented the Australia Day Awards, acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the local community.

“Here in the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters, we are proud to have people who have shown the power of their example in helping others in their community,” said Mayor Bria.

“They should serve as an inspiration to all of us about the virtues of volunteering, of service to others, and making a positive difference to our country.”

Each of the recipients of the Australia Day Awards exemplify the spirit of community and the dedication and service that strengthens our City and defines who we are.

Young Citizen of the Year
Ethan Chen

Ethan has made a significant impact on the community by bridging the gap between disadvantaged children and the benefits of sports.

Founded by Ethan, Courtside Champs has raised more than $10,000 and reached over 700 families, delivering sports programs to children who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity.

With all proceeds and donations funding equipment and scholarships for these families, Ethan has fostered a culture of mentorship and skill development, ensuring that disadvantaged and underrepresented children have access to quality sports coaching and positive role models.

Ethan has revolutionised service learning in his community by stepping up to various ambassador roles, representing the UN Youth SA organisation as a student ambassador and is also a Youth Coastal Ambassador for Green Adelaide.

Recently, Ethan was nominated for the South Australian Volunteer Award, acknowledging his dedication to volunteering and their impactful service in the community.

Ethan has also received the UN Youth Global Citizenship Award, the Headmaster’s Academic Scholarship and has been named a student leader for the 18th National Leadership Camp by Burn Bright.

Community Event of the Year
Cheeky Grin Coffee Longest Table

Through an amazing fundraising event, Cheeky Grin Coffee raised an outstanding $32,555 for the Hospital Research Foundation Group.

Cheeky Grin Coffee is an award winning café with a strong community focus, tucked away on Gage Street in Firle.

Owner Stefan Iannace saw an opportunity to help his customers and community members that have been affected by cancer and more specifically breast cancer, by connecting all things.

A night of good food and drink and connective company whilst donating much needed funds to Cancer Research.

Held as part of the national Longest Table initiative, the sold-out show brought a new level of community connection to this local café’s portfolio and raised more than $650,000 in 2024. In fact, they raised the third largest amount in Australia.

(Image: Mayor Bria, Stefan Iannace and Cr Connie Granozio)

Award for Active Citizenship
Thomas Marlin

Thomas is a world class cellist and musician who has committed himself to building the musical landscape in Adelaide through the grassroots of our music community.

He's a very busy private teacher who has taught many pupils who have gone on to be a part of Adelaide Youth Orchestras and the Open Music Academy.

He has also significantly contributed to the success of the St Peter's College Strings in ABODA (Australian Band and Orchestra Directors' Association) Festival.

Thomas is a member of the Adelaide Baroque, a renowned ensemble that brings baroque music to contemporary audiences and a member of the Tarrawatta Trio, which as a member of Chamber Music Adelaide, is currently celebrating the legacy of Miriam Hyde.

Thomas has formed the top-quality Alma Moodie String Quartet with major professional players in Sydney, raising awareness of historical female figures in Australian musical history.

Adelaide is Australia's UNESCO City of Music, and Thomas demonstrates total dedication to the principals of UNESCO cities of music re spreading awareness of and access to more live music opportunities in the community.

Thomas' recent recording of Boccherini's famously virtuosic Cello chamber music with Sally Walker, made in the world class North Adelaide Baroque Hall and released on AVIE records, is currently Grammy-nominated.

(Image: Mayor Bria, Thomas Marlin and Cr Grant Piggott)

Find out more and nominate for the 2026 Awards here: Citizen of the Year