Wodonga will celebrate its own at this year’s Australia Day ceremony, with the 2025 Citizen of the Year and Community Organisation of the Year to be recognised.
Wodonga’s Citizen of the Year is Saguna Gevariya and the Wodonga Men’s Shed Inc. has been named the Community Organisation of the Year.
Come along to Wodonga’s Australia Day Awards at The Cube Wodonga from 7am to 10.30am on Sunday, January 26 where you will get the chance to congratulate the recipients in person.
Following the presentation of the awards at the Australia Day celebrations at The Cube, 40 people will take their citizenship oath.
Those becoming Australian citizens hail from a diverse range of lands including Bhutan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, India, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Tanzania, United Kingdom and Vietnam.
Activities are as follows:
- 7am to 8.30am - Barbecue breakfast to be served
- 7am to 7.55am - Wodonga Brass Band and Sing Australia to perform, stalls to operate
- 8.30am - Proceedings to commence
- 9.10am - Australia Day Awards presented, followed by the citizenship ceremony
- 9.30am - Ceremony to close
- 9.30am to 10am – Morning tea to be served
- 9.30am to 10.30am - Live music and market stalls
This event is sponsored by Enviro Culture.
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR – Saguna Gevariya
Since moving to Wodonga in 2014, Saguna Gevariya has been a pillar of the community, dedicating herself to supporting and uplifting others—particularly those from multicultural backgrounds.
Guided by her father's strong ethics and compassion for others, Saguna has become a vital part of the community, driven by the belief that even a small act of kindness can profoundly impact someone's life.
Saguna’s extensive volunteer work has spanned several key organisations, including the Albury Wodonga Indian Australian Association (AWIAA), the Albury Wodonga Ethnic Community Council (AWECC) and the Bochasanvasi Aksharpurushotam Sanstha (BAPS) organisation. Inspired by her BAPS mentor’s belief that “in the joy of others lies our own,” Saguna has worked tirelessly to help migrants feel at home in Wodonga, fostering belonging and inclusion.
In 2022, Saguna’s commitment and vision earned her a place on the AWECC Board, where she later rose to the position of Chairperson. Under her leadership, AWECC has made significant strides toward long-term sustainability, ensuring continued support for new migrants and their families.
Saguna has spearheaded several transformative initiatives, including the establishment of an in-language driving school to help migrants obtain their licenses and a women’s sewing group designed to empower refugee women with skills for economic independence. She has also been a passionate advocate for nurturing young leaders, offering guidance and inspiration to encourage others to step into leadership roles within the community.
Her contributions to celebrating Wodonga’s multiculturalism have been equally impactful. Saguna has volunteered her time and energy to organise events such as Harmony Day, Refugee Day and the Holi Festival, bringing people together and promoting cultural understanding through public celebrations and educational activities at schools and TAFE.
Through her dedication, vision, and compassion, Saguna Gevariya has profoundly enriched the lives of countless individuals in Wodonga. Her tireless efforts reflect an unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and thriving community.
Saguna said, “This award means a lot to me, and I am deeply honoured and grateful to receive this award.”
“Volunteering and helping others are on its own the greatest reward, but this acknowledgement is truly uplifting. It has encouraged me to continue to advocate and do more to work towards our shared goals for a better community.”
COMMUNITY ORGANISATION OF THE YEAR – Wodonga Men’s Shed Inc.
The Wodonga Men’s Shed has become a cornerstone of the Wodonga community, offering men a welcoming space to connect, share, and develop their skills and experiences.
Embodying camaraderie, teamwork, and community spirit, the Men’s Shed is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of men.
The Wodonga Men’s Shed has contributed to numerous community events and initiatives, including constructing the base that proudly holds the flags on the Australia Day awards stage.
The inaugural meeting of the Wodonga Men’s Shed was held in 2009, and since it has expanded in members and received funding to open a purpose-built facility in 2017.
Over the years, it has provided a safe and supportive environment for men from all walks of life to discuss challenges, build friendships, and access valuable support, reinforcing their importance as valued members of the community.