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Subscriber only Barbara Swain, founder of Mental Health Support Group, was named 2021 Ballina Shire Citizen of the Year. Twenty five years ago, Mrs Swain s son, Barry, lost his battle with depression. Two years later, she started providing toiletry packs and clothing to people in Lismore Base Mental Health Unit who didn t have family or friends to provide for them. She did this single-handedly for two years. A meeting with the Rotary Heath Mental Forum meant the formation of the Northern Rivers Mental Health Support Group (MHSG), an organisation run by volunteers that receives no government funding. Mrs Swain explained her son moved from the UK to Australia, and it was here he became unwell.
Mayor David Wright and Anne Thompson, 2020 Citizen of the Year, announced the winner.
The ceremony’s MC was netballer and broadcaster Liz Ellis.
The Ballina Shire resident offered a relaxed, funny and engaging style to the occasion, accompanied by special guest, Channel 9 sports reporter James Bracey.
Barbara Swain was awarded the accolade for her 25-year work with the Ballina Mental Health Support Group, a charity she founded.
Mrs Swain started up the group after her son Barry lost his battle with depression.
The Sporting Achievement Award went to Clare Southwell.
Having sailed competitively in her youth, Ms Southwell had a 20-year break from sailing.
Last year’s winners of the Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards. Photo supplied.
This year’s Australia Day celebrations for Ballina Shire will be held at Lennox Head Cultural Centre on Tuesday 26 January, starting at 9am.
The 2021 event will include the citizenship ceremony, Australia Day awards, and performances by opera singer Katie Rutledge and 12-year-old singer/songwriter Lennox Broadley.
Ballina Council say they are delighted to have James Bracey as special guest speaker this year, along with Liz Ellis as Master of Ceremonies.
Special guests James Bracey. Photo supplied.
James Bracey is the host of Channel Nine’s National Rugby League and Australian Open tennis coverage, plus Sports Sunday and 100% Footy programs.