Bob Jakeman Chosen as 2021 Mount Isa Citizen of the Year
Much-valued and long-time community stalwart Bob Jakeman is the 2021 Mount Isa Citizen of the Year.
Mayor Danielle Slade said it would be an honour to present Bob with his Citizen of the Year award, given his extraordinary involvement in, dedication and generosity to the Mount Isa community and sporting clubs over the years.
“Bob has been a Mount Isa resident for more than 45 years and his love of this community is evident,” Cr Slade said.
“Bob has worked so hard for the Mount Isa Touch Association, Mount Isa Leichhardt Lions Club, Town Rugby League Club and the Mount Isa Golf Club over the years, he has definitely earned the status of ‘local legend’.
“He arrived in Mount Isa to play rugby league for Townies and, through his involvement as a player, committee member and builder of the club’s clubhouse, was eventually named a Townies life member. He still plays an integral role in keeping rugby league alive in Mount Isa and officiates rugby league games.
“He has also refereed, played and been a committee member of the Mount Isa Touch Association for many years, and helps keep their grounds in top condition.
“While now retired, during his years running his building business, Jakeman Constructions, Bob gave generously to many sports and associations in Mount Isa in both monetary form and valuable building advice.
“Bob is an incredible community role model and truly deserving of this year’s Citizen of the Year Award. On behalf of Council and Mount Isa, I sincerely thank him for everything he has done for our community.”
The 2021 Mount Isa Australia Day Awards will be presented at a ceremony to be held at the Buchanan Park Entertainment Centre from 8.30am on Tuesday, January 26.
The award winners are as follows:
- Young Citizen of the Year: Darcy Ryder
- Senior Citizen of the Year: Shelley Howe
- Junior Sports Award: Brock Philip
- Senior Sports Award: Jerome Sopoaga
- Southern Gulf NRM Sarus Crane Award: Paul Johnson
- Arts & Culture Award: Sally Prendergast
- Community Event of the Year: NAIDOC Week – Mount Isa Recovery Service Centre
- Spirit of Mount Isa Awards: Sue Carson and Lorna Fisher
Sixteen conferees will also officially become Australian citizens at the citizenship ceremony on Tuesday morning.
The conferees are originally from countries including New Zealand, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Fiji, Zimbabwe, India, Thailand and Pakistan.
Locals are welcome to attend the awards presentation and citizenship ceremony but will need to check in via a QR code (smartphone required) upon entry.