Eugowra's Citizen of the Year has been described as an amazing citizen both of the town and the wider community.
Sean Haynes and his family moved to Eugowra 13 years ago - and he serves as president of the Show Society, chair of the Eugowra Promotion and Progress Association, active member of St Joseph's P and F and organiser of Anzac Day and Remembrance Day commemorations.
Under Sean's leadership, Eugowra Show is a thriving community event and the EPPA has supported the murals, museum and Rural Transaction Centre to grow and flourish.
There have been grants and funding for local projects and facilities such as the multipurpose centre at the showground over the years.
Then, following the devastating flash flood event of 14 November 2022, Sean really went to work for the town in a voluntary capacity.
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At the Australia Day awards, his leadership and advocacy was described as "phenomenal".
Sean was among the early responders working to ensure the evacuation centre was available and necessary supplies available and he hasn't stopped since.
Despite losing a house in the flood himself, Sean immediately went to work - committed to do everything he could to help the community recover.
He liaised with emergency services, government departments, non-government organisations and charities, he has advocated to Members of Parliament tirelessly for what the community needs.
"His input cannot be overstated," Australia Day MC Tony said in reading the award citation.
"His work in this space continues to this day."
Both proud and humbled, Sean said he needed to acknowledge the people and organisations who supported and inspired his work in the community.
"First and foremost I must thank the residents and supporters of Eugowra," he said.
"Nearly 13 years ago my family and I moved here, and while I hoped to be in a community similar to the one I grew up in, I never anticipated how much this town and its people would come to mean to me.
"The friendships and connections made, along with the opportunities to be involved in various organisations have been incredibly rewarding.
"It has and is about making a difference in our community so thank you Eugowra for being the community that you are."
Sean also thanked the Moxey family: Moxey Farms brought the Haynes family to Eugowra and Sean remains deeply thankful for the opportunity they presented to him and many others in the community.
"Their ongoing support has allowed me to be involved in a variety of community-led initiatives and for that I'm truly grateful," he said.
"Of course none of this would be possible without the unwavering love and support of my family.
"Your understanding and encouragement have allowed me to dedicate time to our community and for that I am grateful."
He finished paying tribute to the example set by his family.
"The desire to be involved in the community and make a difference is something that's been ingrained in me by my parents, grandparents and extended family," Sean said.
"Their example has shaped who I am and how I approach how I am involved in our community today.
"So in accepting this award I do so not just for myself but in honour of all those who have inspired me along the way."
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