Citizen of the Year 2025 - Winners Announced
Celebrating Our Local Heroes
The District Council of Karoonda East Murray is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Citizen of the Year Awards, recognising outstanding individuals and events that make our community vibrant, resilient, and connected.
Citizen of the Year: Leanne Kruger and Jeff Stone
Leanne Kruger has been a long-standing member of the Karoonda Country Fire Service Group and Brigades, and currently serves as the Captain of the Karoonda CFS Brigade. Her journey with the CFS began over ten years ago during the Billiatt Conservation Park fire, which came dangerously close to her rural property. The experience inspired her to join the CFS, where she quickly took on roles in both firefighting and Road Crash Rescue, ultimately earning the respect of her peers and stepping into leadership. Beyond her CFS service, Leanne is an active member of the Sandalwood Hall Committeea and has volunteered countless hours with local organisations, including the Karoonda Area School and the local football club.
Jeff Stone has been a dedicated citizen of the Karoonda East Murray district for many years. As a volunteer with the CFS for 30 years—28 of those in Karoonda—Jeff has shown commitment to the safety and well-being of the district. He served as the Karoonda CFS Captain for 12 years, Deputy Group Officer for 4 years, and is currently the Group Officer of the Mallee CFS Group. Jeff’s leadership in firefighting and emergency response has made a lasting impact on the local community, ensuring the region is prepared and protected in times of crisis. Beyond his CFS service, Jeff has devoted countless volunteer hours to local organisations, including the Sandalwood Hall, Karoonda Area School, and the local football club. His dedication to community service and his ongoing contributions have earned him the joint recognition of Citizen of the Year Award.
Young Citizen of the Year: Tarryn Turner
Tarryn Turner's involvement with the Karoonda Country Fire Service demonstrates his willingness to step up in times of need. Over the past two years, he has been a volunteer, assisting in fire and rescue efforts and committing to additional training to enhance his skills and better serve the community. His plans to complete advanced courses in Breathing Apparatus and Road Crash Rescue demonstrate a passion for ensuring the safety and well-being of others. Beyond his work with the CFS, Tarryn has been a key member of the Karoonda Bowls Club for the past three years. Not only is he a dedicated playing member, but he also serves as the Club Treasurer, showcasing responsibility and leadership. Described by those who know him as kind-hearted, humble, and always willing to help, Tarryn represents the values of service, dedication, and community spirit.
Award for Active Citizenship: Raelene Boughen
Raelene Boughen is a stalwart of the community and has been a steady advocate for essential services in the district, particularly in the areas of health and transport. Over ten years ago, when the community faced the loss of its GP services, Raelene spearheaded a grassroots effort to secure a new doctor, ensuring continued care for Karoonda residents. When the GP service was again under threat, she rallied the community, helped to form an advocacy group, and worked tirelessly to find solutions for the town's healthcare needs. Her advocacy has also led to instigating local drivers for the transport scheme with the Tailem Bend Community Club. Known for her humility and resolve, Raelene works quietly behind the scenes, her unwavering commitment has made Karoonda and the wider district a better place to live, work, and thrive.
Community Event of the Year: Karoonda Bowling Club’s "Mates on a Mission" Event
The Karoonda Bowling Club has been recognised for hosting the 'Mates on a Mission' (MOAM) event in August, 2024.
This event, made possible by the club's generosity in providing the venue free of charge, preparing a community meal, and donating profits to the South Australian charity Ski for Life, brought community members from the district together to promote mental health, wellbeing, and suicide prevention. Featuring Mike Rolls and Ben Pettingill, affectionately known as Legless & Blind, they shared their journeys of resilience and positivity in the face of unimaginable challenges. Mike lost his legs to meningococcal disease at 18, and Ben lost 98% of his eyesight overnight at 16. Despite these setbacks, they have turned their experiences into a mission to encourage others to look after their mental health and support their mates. The evening combined humour, heartfelt storytelling, and practical messages of strength, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
Award Presentation
Join the community to celebrate at the upcoming Australia Day event:
- When: Sunday, 26 January 2025
- Where: Sandalwood Hall, Sandalwood
- Time: 9am for a bacon and egg breakfast, with the official ceremony to follow from 10am
- Click here for me information