Adelaide Plains Citizen of the Year 2025 award recipients
The Adelaide Plains are home to a thriving, generous and proactive community. Local people who make outstanding contributions to the community are celebrated through Adelaide Plains Council’s annual Australia Day Citizen of the Year awards.
Council is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Australia Day Citizen of the Year awards:
Citizens of the Year: Anne and Robert Arbon
Anne and Robert Arbon have dedicated their time and passion to their community for over 40 years. They have contributed to many well-known community organisations including the Two Wells Melodrama Group, Mallala Institute, Two Wells Uniting Church and Op Shop, Adelaide Plains Interchurch Council, Two Wells Probus and both the Mallala and Two Wells primary schools. In recognition of over 20 years continuous service, Anne and Robert are also life members of the Two Wells Melodrama Group.
Young Citizen of the Year: Kai-Leigh Wilson
Kai-Leigh shows deep commitment and passion to her community and the wellbeing of others. As the Vice President of the Plains Community Group she has been instrumental in establishing the group’s Preserving and Connecting Generations project, which includes building an oral history of the Adelaide Plains council region. Kai-Leigh’s dedication was recognised through the Governor’s Civics Awards and she has been the Public Relations Officer for Cancer Research Advocate Bikers. Her inspiring and positive attitude and unwavering determination, whilst battling significant health issues of her own, makes her an exemplary role model for young people.
Community Event of the Year: Two Wells Christmas Parade, Street Market & Carnival 2023
The annual Two Wells Christmas Parade and Street Market allows the community to come together and celebrate the holiday season — a cherished tradition for over 40 years. Coordinated by the Two Wells Regional Action Team and local volunteers, the 2023 event attracted around 4,500 people, 68 market stalls, 25 floats and subsidised carnival rides.
Community Group of the Year: Plains Community Group
Focused on improving the lives of residents across the region and meaningful community engagement, the Plains Community Group has had a big impact since its establishment in 2023. Through its many projects and events, including the Twinkling Trails and Twinkling Lights Competition each Christmas, and the Preserving and Connecting Generations project, the group has created inclusive and meaningful community projects that enhance social connection and preserve our heritage.
Community Project of the Year: Mallala Community Complex – Mallala & Districts Lions Club
The Mallala Community Complex is a purpose built emergency and relief centre designed to support emergency services during local disasters like bushfires or floods, while also providing a free meeting place for local community groups. Completed by the Mallala & Districts Lions Club with support from locals, the facility was officially opened in November 2023 and already holds an important place in the community.
Council received worthy nominations and acknowledges the significant positive impact every nominee had on the community in 2024. Council Members carefully considered all nominations at the 16 December 2024 meeting.
Award recipients will be officially celebrated at Council’s Australia Day Ceremony and all are welcome to attend the free event on Sunday 26 January 2025. Hosted by Mayor Wasley, recipients will be officially presented with their award and some residents will become newly conferred as Australian citizens.
South Australian Young Citizen of the Year and Australia Day 2025 Ambassador, Alexandra Seal, will attend as the special guest speaker. Alexandra is a dedicated and passionate advocate for social justice, community service and environmental sustainability.
Adelaide Plains Council Australia Day Ceremony
- Sunday 26 January 2025
- Two Wells Oval
- Breakfast served from 8am
- Free family event, no booking required
Mark Wasley
Mayor
3 January 2025
Updated 7 January 2025