Community Member 2024 Winner - Maree Eddings
On 28 February 2023, Feros Care Ltd, told residents and their families that it was no longer going to provide residential aged care at Feros Village Byron Bay.
The proposed closure was distressing for residents who felt vulnerable and fearful for their future.
It was going to take something special to protect them and save Feros Village for the Byron Shire community. That something special stood up in the form of Byron Shire resident Maree Eddings, a relative of one of the residents of Feros Village and a member of the Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre.
Maree and other concerned families of the residents came together and formed a fighting front, “Friends and Families of Feros Residents”, to oppose and reverse the closure decision.
Maree’s voluntary contribution to the success of that group in saving our community’s much loved residential aged-care village was huge and certainly makes her a worthy recipient of 2024 Community Member of the Year.
Access and Inclusion Award – Deb and Mark (Mono) Stewart
Deb and Mark Stewart this year organised Australia’s first Adaptive Surf Championship (Blackmores Australian Adaptive Surf Championship) which was held in Byron Bay in March, attracting 94 athletes from 17 countries.
Deb and Mark showcased access and inclusion principles demonstrating what is possible when the beach is accessible for everyone.
Caring for Country Award – Delta Kay
Delta’s nomination recognised her work over many decades as a guiding force for education, custodianship and advocacy for caring for country.
Through her work she has raised awareness among school communities, residents and visitors from around the globe and her work with ‘Country as Teacher’ empowers young First Nations leaders to feel proud and confident in their Aboriginal identity and become the next generation of custodians of country.
Contribution to Health and Wellbeing Award – Kate Jackson
Kate, through her organisation Haus of Amour has spent much of the last 18 months supporting women impacted by domestic violence. Haus of Amour helps women move forward and rebuild their lives away from violence.
She offers a free, personalised styling service providing clothes, styling sessions and support to help address the impact of domestic violence on survivors.
Creativity Award – Janet Swain
Many people in the Byron Shire have been touched by Janet Swain and her love of music. Janet has established local community choirs, organises Choir4aDay events and singing workshops, along with the annual Brunswick Heads Christmas carols.
She rallied local musicians to organise After Disaster, a post-flood community event, and teaches young singers at The Pocket Public School.
In Business for Good – Good Vibes Organics and Creative Capital
There were two winners in this category.
Good Vibes Organics at Ocean Shores is committed to stocking organic, local and ethically sourced products.
In 2022, during the floods, Good Vibes remained open, allowing customers to get food without paying for it because many people did not have access to cash.
Creative Capital is a strong advocate for community projects especially those that address housing stress and homelessness.
Creative Capital is a strong supporter of the Fletcher Street Cottage in Byron Bay.
Community Initiative of the Year – Breakfast service at Fletcher Street Cottage
Fletcher Street Cottage, in Byron Bay is a safe and welcoming place, providing breakfast for people experiencing homelessness.
With more than 60 volunteers, Fletcher Street Cottage also provides access to showers, access to laundry services and office support.
Young Community Member of the Year – Monet Shortland
Monet is an environmental activist who is passionate about engaging with young people to create solutions to protect the ocean and marine life.
She is co-founder of Ocean Voices, an organisation that empowers young people to advocate for ocean health and has been a volunteer at BayFM for more than two years.