Mr Simpson was diagnosed four years ago with Lewy body dementia, and has since made it his goal to learn as much as possible about the disease, as well as raise awareness about dementia within his community.
Over the past three years, Mr Simpson has completed multiple walks to raise dementia awareness and much-needed funds for Dementia Australia.
Together with the Kyabram Community Learning Centre, Mr Simpson was instrumental in the formation of a support group, aptly named ‘Don’t Demention It’.
The group meets once a month at ‘Dementia café’ and encourages people with dementia to join and share information.
Mr Simpson is an active member of the Kyabram community; in particular, as a Lions club member.
Mr Simpson is part of the club’s working party which regularly maintains the grounds at the Kyabram Fauna Park, and recently assisted with moving furniture for people impacted by the flood in Rochester.
As mentioned in a previous story, Echuca’s Cameron Barnes was named young citizen of the year.
He has been an active member of the 1st Echuca Scout Group since 2011 and is currently the unit chair.
Mr Barnes, 20, leads the unit in volunteering and participating at community events as well as mentoring and supporting the younger Scouts.
He is a member of the Youth Advisory Group which advocates to Campaspe Shire Council about issues that affect young people in our community.
Mr Barnes is currently studying Certificate IV in Personal Fitness with the goal to work in the field of disability and rehabilitation, and enjoys volunteering at the Elders exercise program at Njernda’s Nyini Health and Wellness Centre.
The community group of the year, the Girgarre Development Group, is an umbrella group consisting of representatives of all local community organisations.
The group has overseen the revival of the town by uniting the community to work together towards a shared vision for future generations.
Some of the group’s achievements include the establishment of regular events to invigorate the town, such as the Girgarre markets and the Girgarre Moosic Muster, both of which attract large crowds of visitors and locals.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Rob Amos congratulated the winners for their outstanding contributions to their communities.
“The Australia Day Awards are an important way to formally recognise the dedication and commitment of hard working members in our municipality, nominated by members of their community,” Cr Amos said.
“We are very fortunate to have remarkable citizens who generously give of their time, knowledge and skills to increase social connections, opportunities and improve the health and wellbeing of residents.”
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