Local heroes in the starlight

By Owen Sinclair

Apr 21, 2025

The Cobram SES Unit with unit controller Luke Herezo (centre) and Moira Shire Council Chair Administrator Graeme Emonson and chief executive Matthew Morgan. Photo by Owen Sinclair

The pentagram symbolises many things across religions and cultures.

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But for one evening, the five-pointed star brought the Moira Shire to the Cobram Civic Centre to celebrate five individuals and organisations who dedicate themselves to the improvement of their communities.

With a class act in Paul Lyons providing the musical soundtrack, the Wednesday, April 16 Moira Achiever Awards drew a crowd of at least 100 and was emceed by Moira Shire Council chief executive Matthew Morgan.

“The Moira Shire Achiever Awards tonight are a great opportunity to come together to celebrate and acknowledge those who contribute so positively to our community,” Mr Morgan told his audience.

The Numurkah and District Historical Society receiving its award from Graeme Emonson and Matthew Morgan.

“On behalf of council, I thank you all.”

To open the ceremony, Elder Nikki James from the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation led a Welcome to Country before the Cobram SES Unit received the Community Start Achiever Award.

Out of 10 nominees, the unit was recognised for its continued dedication to supporting the community during emergencies, something that has seen it respond to at least 100 call-outs since the new year.

Unit controller Luke Herezo was ecstatic about the recognition after the unit also received a similar award at the Australia Day Awards earlier this year.

“It really highlights the great work that our unit does and pays homage to what they give and the time they give,” he said.

The Arts, Culture and Environment Star Achiever award went to the Numurkah and District Historical Society for its continued work in celebrating the history and culture of the Numurkah district.

Particular note was made of the society’s work organising the recent sesquicentennial of Numurkah and Wunghnu, an event deemed a massive success.

The Young Star Achiever of the Year award for a person under 16 years went to Cobram Anglican Grammar School student Cedric Pang.

Cedric’s nomination highlighted his many endeavours, not least his academic excellence in earning a perfect VCE score in general mathematics at age 15, and his volunteer service overseas.

Nikita Carroll was named Shining Star Achiever of the Year out of four nominees across the shire. Photo by Owen Sinclair

The award for the Shining Star Achiever of the Year went to Nikita Carroll of Yarrawonga for her work with the SES, leadership in music and athletics and event emceeing.

Finally, the Star Achiever of the Year award went to Dario Prighel, also from Yarrawonga.

Mr Prighel was recognised for his tireless service in junior development through Little Athletics, tennis, swimming and in growing junior golf.