Ask Sharyn Mackenzie about her life-changing work and she’ll tell you many other people are doing the same. The humble 69-year-old, from Corrimal, has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her service to the community through refugee support.

Peter Kell has been honoured as a Member of the General Division of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to the Anglican Church, social welfare programs and their delivery, and to the Illawarra community.

Wollongong’s Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony hosted by Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery included many messages. Aunty Bev Armer gave the Country and said she felt very proud to represent the Indigenous community in welcoming the city’s newest Australian citizens.

Age hasn’t wearied Mount Kembla Rural Fire Brigade veteran John Bourke. The 73-year-old active firefighter’s work has been recognised with an Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM).

Deborah Hamilton and Aaron Newton took out Shellharbour City's major Australia Day awards, named citizen and young citizen of the year respectively.

Rio Olympic hopeful Jake Birtwhistle continued his love affair with the Australia Day Aquathon on Tuesday crossing the finish line first for the third straight year.

Kiama and Shellharbour celebrated Australia Day with a series of well-received events.

​There was a special family feel at the Shellharbour Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony when Kelly Martin and her three children all took the oath together on the main stage.