Kylee Bentham started volunteering from the age of seven by helping distribute Meals on Wheels with her grandfather, manning Red Cross stalls with her grandmother until she was 16 years old and volunteering at community stalls across Macarthur and Liverpool with her mother.
In the recent floods, Kylee, the co-founder of the Shining Stars Foundation, helped provide water, food and medical supplies.
The local volunteer responsible for providing more than 800 free meals to those in need has been named this year’s Camden Australia Day Citizen of the Year.
Dedicated air force cadet, Ebony-Rose Mangion, received the award for Young Citizen of the Year from Mayor Theresa Fedeli at the presentation ceremony yesterday.
Ebony-Rose has represented the 303 Camden Squadron including being specially selected to be part of the Queens Guard and Catafalque party for Anzac Day Dawn service in Camden.
The other Camden 2023 Australia Day Award winners were:
• Melissa Musgrave – Arts and Culture;
• Group 6 Rugby League Referees – Sports Achievement;
• Camden Community Garden and Macarthur Storm Chasers, joint winners – Community Group.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said it was a perfect way to celebrate the greatness of Australia.
“Shining the spotlight on those within our community who live to serve is truly special,” Cr Fedeli said.
“To the fantastic residents who have won awards this year and all those who were nominated: you should be so proud of your dedication and commitment to making the lives of others so much better.
“How lucky we are to have you as part of our community.
“When I look to the event that took place in the heart of Camden, I am filled with happiness.
“It was our first parade we have held in the last three years and it was fantastic to see so many people come out to celebrate with us.
“Seeing thousands of residents lining Argyle Street in Camden was just so heart warming.
“Australia is a beautiful nation with many things to admire, and I am very proud Camden shines through as a prime example of diversity, inclusion and community.
“I hope your day was filled with fun and laughter with the ones you value the most.”
