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Lusi Austin expresses her love for Cowra
By CARA KEMP
THE Cowra Citizen of the Year award has been presented to Lusi Austin, a writer and historian, for her outstanding contributions to preserving Cowra’s history and promoting community-driven activities. Lusi’s work has played a significant role in keeping the town’s cultural heritage alive while encouraging others to connect with its rich past and the values that make Cowra unique. The Cowra Citizen of the Year award highlights the tireless efforts of individuals who dedicate themselves to the betterment of their communities. Other nominees were Lesley Burns who was nominated for revitalising the Gooloogong Country Club and her dedication to community service. Aunty Esther Cutmore, an elder and advocate for reconciliation, who was recognised for her cultural education and community involvement. Marc Grant who was nominated for his leadership and support of local youth. Ray Heilman was nominated for his contributions to Cowra’s agricultural and community life. Carolynn Hodder, a nurse, was nominated for her empathy and dedication to patients. Ray Johnston was nominated for his long-term service in emergency response and community events. Each nominee was recognised for their extraordinary service to Cowra, from revitalising local organisations to supporting agriculture, youth, and healthcare. While all of the nominees have made meaningful contributions, it was Lusi’s deep dedication to preserving the town’s historical and
cultural significance that made her stand out. Her work is particularly notable for its focus on Cowra’s relationship with Japan, especially after the infamous Cowra POW breakout in 1944. Lusi has worked to ensure the story of this event, and the lessons of peace and reconciliation it holds, are passed down to future generations. In her acceptance speech, Lusi expressed her gratitude for the recognition. “First of all, thank you to all of you for being here and to our distinguished guests,” Lusi said. “What an incredible honour it was just to be nominated and to see it alongside so many of these incredible people, who have all contributed to making our community the vibrant place that it is.” Lusi shared her personal journey of moving to Cowra, a decision that shaped her deep connection to the town and its people. “I remember driving through the open plains and seeing the road open out into those rolling hills, feeling like somehow this sky held way more stars than any other place I had lived,” she said. “As we settled in, I wanted to know about this town, its places, its stories, and its people.” It was the town’s legacy of peace and friendship with Japan that captivated Lusi. After the tragic events of the 1944 Cowra breakout, Cowra’s response was one of reconciliation, and this is a message Lusi has worked to keep alive through her writing and historical research. “I wanted my children to know the story and to be people who advocated kindness, peace, and decency towards others,” she said. “I wanted them to stand in our shared humanity with others, rath-
er than allowing hatred to separate us.” Lusi’s work is not limited to historical preservation; she has long been an advocate for building a peaceful and inclusive community. In her speech, she emphasised the importance of reconciliation and unity in today’s society. “I will continue to strive to see that same kind of peace and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians in our community and in our nation,” Lusi said. “It is vital for us all to continue working towards a more compassionate and understanding future.” While accepting the award, Lusi acknowledged the significance of the occasion, which fell on a day of both celebration and reflection. “It is also a day, as Ben [Farinazzo] mentioned, for reflection,” she said. “It is a reminder to many of survival, of reconciliation, and of hope.” Lusi took a moment to honor the contributions of her family, who have been a constant source of support throughout her journey. The importance of family and community was a central theme in Lusi’s address. “I dedicate this award to everyone that I am connected with in this community and who worked with me, creatively and otherwise, and to those who have encouraged me, who have not made me feel alone,” she said. “I strive to be a person who tries to help others, who seeks to contribute meaningfully into our beautiful community, just like all of these other amazing nominees.” Lusi also expressed her enduring love for Cowra and the country that has given her so much. “I love Cowra passionately, and I love this nation,” she said. ■ More photos page 9 Ben Farinazzo with Cowra Citizen of the Year, Lusi Austin.
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