A BEACH life saver has been recognised as Frankston’s best citizen of the year at the annual 26 January awards.
Timothy Cutrona has spent a decade at the Frankston Life Saving Club. He teaches nippers, captains a patrol group, and since 2013 has held the role of president.
“My hope for Frankston City is that the next generation will have the same opportunities I did to be engaged with the community,” he said. “I had wonderful mentors through Scouts, karate and motorbike riding and I want my legacy to be providing young people the same access to those opportunities. That is why it is important to give back.”
Frankston mayor Kris Bolam said “Tim’s hard work, dedication and love of the community had made him a very worthy recipient of this award and a role model for future generations.”
“Tim’s passion and dedication to the safety of the Frankston City community is second to none,” he said. “No task is too big and he is always on hand to support water safety events throughout the year, as well as empowering young people to connect with the community and each other.”
A young man who helped organise a road safety campaign after the tragic death of a classmate was named the young citizen of the year.
Kai Malcolm was recognised for his work with the Chill Out and Look About campaign. The initiative was set up after Frankston High School student Dylan Briggs died while riding his bike home from school.
Kai created a website and social media pages for the campaign. “This award is special and I am grateful to have been nominated. It is nice to put my skills into something valuable which will be seen and make a difference,” he said.
“I hope the campaign will inspire people to be more thoughtful on the road, especially around pedestrians. There is no need to rush. If you’re late, you’re late.”
The Chill Out and Look About road safety campaign was also named the community event of the year by council.
Kananook Creek Association veteran Robert Thurley rounded out the award winners on 26 January.
The senior citizen of the year was celebrated for serving more than 40 years with the Kananook Creek Association. “The last 42 years have been a pleasure and I want to acknowledge the late Allan and Yvonne Sisson whose work cleaning up the creek and creating these reserves and walking tracks inspired 400 people, including myself,” Mr Thurley said.
“Although to say I love Frankston sounds corny, I do, and I want to try and inspire people to share their skills for the betterment of our community.
“We are just the people who are here for this short period of time. The creek will be here for thousands of years and I believe we have a duty to leave the country in a better position for future generations.”