2025 Local Celebration Award Winners

Penrith is home to many dedicated, selfless and inspirational people and Council’s Local Celebration Awards are an opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate these people in our community.

2025 Citizen of the Year: Anthony Fryer

From the moment he stepped into the St Marys RSL Sub Branch in 2004, Tony Fryer has been a whirlwind of enthusiasm and dedication. After taking on the role of Assistant Secretary in 2007, he waded into his current position as Secretary in 2012. With each annual re-election, he proves that his love for the community and commitment to service are as unyielding as a soldier’s march!

Tony is not just the man behind the administrative curtain—he’s the mastermind behind our cherished commemorations. From the solemnity of Anzac Day to the vibrant honoring of Vietnam Veterans Day, he juggles approvals, guest speakers, and logistics like a pro! The 100th Anniversary of the Gallipoli landing and the Coo-ee march re-enactment stand out as monumental achievements with Tony orchestrating these grand events to perfection.

Tony spearheads initiatives with local schools, judges high school scholarship entries and brings cheer to veterans in hospitals and nursing homes. Tony’s love for history is beautifully showcased through the Corridor of Honour at the St Marys Diggers Club, where he managed everything from approvals to the installation of a striking Armoured Personnel Carrier on display.

2025 Mayor’s Local Hero: Bev Fink

From the moment her son kicked off his first playgroup adventure, Bev Fink jumped into the volunteering game—and she hasn’t stopped since. Elected Secretary of the Mother's Club and the P&C Association at Cambridge Park Public School, Bev has been a tireless champion for education and parent engagement.

But Bev didn’t just cheer from the sidelines; she became the heartbeat of local football. Joining the committee of the Cambridge Park football team in 1985, she was soon known as the go-to Secretary. Her contributions expanded to the Penrith Junior Rugby League, where she mastered the art of timekeeping and record-keeping—often clocking in six games over just two days!

Even a cancer diagnosis in 2007 couldn’t dim her light. After a fierce battle, Bev emerged stronger and even more devoted, volunteering four mornings a week for the Cancer Council at the Nepean Cancer Care Unit. Recognised as a finalist for Volunteer of the Year, she even had the distinction of launching the Penrith Relay for Life.

2025 Young Citizen of the Year: Amelia Grace Wilson-Williams

Amelia Grace Wilson-Williams, a vibrant 22-year-old who embodies kindness and determination in every endeavor. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Communications (Social and Political Sciences) at the University of Technology Sydney, she seamlessly juggles her studies with her role as a Tenants Advocate at the Western Sydney Community Legal Centre. Amelia dedicates her weekends to working at St Marys Diggers and Band Club, proving that you can balance community commitment with personal life.

Amelia's passion for social justice was ignited as she volunteered with the Girl Guides. Fast forward, and she became a Junior Leader, inspiring younger girls along the way. As a Club Leader in high school, she not only championed numerous fundraisers but also took on initiatives like the World's Greatest Shave and Relay for Life.

She has completed a virtual international development intensive internship with Think Pacific based ‘in’ Suva, Fiji in December 2021 and January 2022 with funding from WSU, where she had the opportunity to write a paper for the UNDP on how the COVID-19 pandemic has increased hardship and poverty in Fiji and ways this may be resolved. 

Amelia's resilience shines through every challenge she faces. Her dedication has earned her the prestigious Tom Sylva Award, and her leadership roles at UTS are proof that she’s just getting started.

2025 Making a Difference – Community Service Award: Heike Forth

A remarkable figure in the Penrith sporting community, dedicating over 50 years as an athlete, coach, administrator and volunteer. Inspired by her teacher, Heike Forth joined Nepean Athletics Club at 12, quickly excelling as a state champion and national representative. Her gratitude for the opportunities she received fuelled her passion to give back. She has held numerous roles within the Nepean Little Athletics including President since 2018, where her leadership sparked growth in registration and community involvement.

Heike's commitment extends to netball, where she has served for 45 years as a player, coach, and treasurer at Cambridge Park. Her journey continued with Cranebrook United Football Club, where she stepped up as president, revitalising the organization through her dedication.

As the Head Teacher of Physical Education at Cranebrook High School, Heike inspires young athletes while balancing family commitments. Her legacy continues in the community, embodying the spirit of local heroism through her endless encouragement and support for youth sports.