City of Darwin is pleased to welcome 56 new citizens from 20 different countries to Darwin, with the new residents officially recognised at an Australia Day Ceremony held at the DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel Esplanade Darwin today.

The winners of the annual Citizen of the Year Awards, which recognise individuals who go above and beyond to make a positive impact in Darwin, were also announced and celebrated. 

City of Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis welcomed the new citizens and congratulated the award winners.

“Australia Day is a day to celebrate the Australian spirit and our cultural diversity, achievements and resilience,” Mr Vatskalis said.

“We are very proud of our vibrant and multicultural city, and it’s fantastic to welcome those who have decided to make Australia, and in particular Darwin, their new home, as well as to celebrate people who make a positive impact in our community. 

“It is also important to acknowledge First Nations Australians who have been conducting their ceremonies on this land for tens of thousands of years,” he said.

The winners of the Citizen of the Year Awards are as follows:

• Citizen of the Year - Donna Rousham

Donna has been recognised for her impactful work in the field of inclusive swimming after she formed the Starfish Swim Group in 2005, providing specialised swimming instruction for children with special needs.

The Starfish Swim Group was created to offer families with children who have disabilities access to a free, comprehensive water skills program, helping children learn to swim and stay safe in the water.

Donna's dedication has been pivotal in creating and sustaining a supportive, inclusive environment where children with disabilities can thrive, gain valuable skills and enjoy the benefits of swimming. 

Donna’s commitment has been recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), celebrating her exceptional service and lasting impact on the community.

• Young Citizen of the Year - Peter Susanto 

Peter has been recognised for being an outstanding young man and dedicated member of the community. 

After showing exceptional academic abilities in the early years of primary school, Peter accelerated through the grades to eventually achieve top academic results at school and in competitions at regional, national and international levels, as well as enrolling in a Bachelor of Medicine at a very young age.

Peter’s academic achievements have raised the NT’s profile in academics and Peter has been invited to speak at a number of Darwin schools to share his story.

Peter contributes to the community by inspiring young people to do their best in whatever they do, through sharing his achievements, struggles and strategies to deal with difficult challenges. 

Peter established Peter’s Little Library, a free mini library where everyone can borrow, swap or donate books, and is a member of the Northern Territory Association for the Education of the Gifted and Talented.

Peter was the 2024 NT Youth Week Ambassador and has volunteered for the Australian Dental Association where he advocated for all NT residents aged 18 years and less to have access to free oral health services irrespective of their situation or school enrolment. 

• Community Activity of the Year - Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta 

The Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta is a unique event held annually in Darwin that celebrates creativity, fun and community spirit. 

The Regatta has made several important contributions to the community over the past 50 years, raising significant funds for local charities, including assisting the Men’s Shed Palmerston in purchasing a new shed and contributing to St John Ambulances purchasing two new ambulances.

The Regatta has also supported the Cancer Council NT and raised awareness about recycling and waste management, promoting creative re-use of materials and highlighting the importance of sustainability.

City of Darwin’s Australia Day ceremony was marked with Welcome to Country, didgeridoo and tap stick performance as well as the Australian Defence Force flag raising ceremony.

City of Darwin is providing free entry all day on Sunday 26 January 2025 to the Casuarina, Nightcliff, and Parap pools to ensure the celebrations are inclusive and accessible.