THE 2016 Frankston Citizen of the Year, David Cross, said he had been “humbled” by the experiences of the past year, which enabled him to meet a broader range of people and represent the Frankston community.
Mr Cross, the chair of the Frankston Environmental Friends Network and secretary of the Friends of Wallace Reserve, said it is important for councils to continue to honour community leaders and “ordinary” people who volunteered their time for the community.
Mr Cross is an active member of the Rotary Club of Frankston and also works with guides, scouts, disability groups and school councils alongside his conservation work at Wallace Reserve. He said some highlights of his time as Citizen of the Year included being asked to plant a lone pine at the new war memorial at Beauty Park, and being able to engage with people from the wider community.
“It was a surprise to be nominated and has been a truly humbling experience because there are so very many wonderful people doing wonderful things in Frankston,” he said.
Mr Cross said he believed the role had the additional benefit of raising the profile of various community organisations and allowed them to network with others.
“But probably the most important thing about the award is that councils are recognising ordinary people who are doing good work in their communities.”
Ahead of the Australia Day announcements of this year’s award recipients, Mr Cross offered his “heartiest congratulations” to the person carrying the ambassador’s baton in 2017.
“Good luck and enjoy 2017 as you serve and represent the community of our wonderful city.”