She joins husband Peter as the first couple to receive Federation’s top individual award. Peter won the top, inaugural award, in 2018, following the amalgamation of Corowa and Urana Shires in 2016.
Liz was presented with the two prestigious awards last Sunday at council’s Australia Day celebration in Howlong by Mayor Pat Bourke.
“Elizabeth Dale Seeliger has been a committee member of the Yarrawonga Mulwala Across the Arts Council for over 20 years, holding the positions of president, secretary, treasurer and membership officer,” the mayor told the big crowd at Memorial Park.
“She was an active member of the Lake Mulwala Community Action Group and the Yarrawonga Mulwala Chamber of Commerce.
“Liz delivers Meals-on-Wheels to residents in Mulwala and runs three sessions of gentle exercise a week for our senior citizens in Mulwala and Savernake.”
Liz said she was tremendously honoured to receive the award. “I love living here and I love the great things that are happening here – The Ageing Well Resource Book, Seniors Festival of Fun, World Show Skiing Championships, More Gentle Exercise Classes,” she said.
“Thanks to everyone for supporting today. Congratulations to all the nominees who have all done something very special for the community.
“You are all winners – and especially the Federation Council - because we all live in it.”
Earlier, Liz won the Local Achiever award in respect of Mulwala and district. “I am honoured to be part of my Community and being nominated for an award is very humbling,” she said.
After holidaying in Mulwala 59 years ago, the Seeliger family has been in Mulwala for 35 years.
“I love everything about living here. The great entertainment we have, the weather but best of all, the people,” she said, then offered suggestions.
“We have to do things together and learn from each other as we live in such a huge remote council area.
“There is no need to ever feel lonely as through volunteering, you meet people who all happily give back to their communities. If you aren’t a volunteer then just come along to any event. You will be made to feel welcome and soon meet more people.”
Federation Council’s 2020 Citizen of the Year thanked husband Peter and her friends who made the trip to Howlong and who are all volunteers.
“Also, I feel that we get as much out of what we do as the people we are helping,’ Liz said.
“We can change people’s lives for the better or at the least, improve them. By doing the simplest thing to help someone, can put a smile on their face and makes you feel good inside.
“I doubt that there are many people here today who don’t volunteer. Pass your expertise onto others for all ages.”
Liz expressed her thanks to Federation Council for holding the special day. “Volunteering helps your community, makes you feel good and valued. I feel very valued today,” she said.