In an effort to recognise Illawarra residents outstanding contribution to the Community, i98 FM gave listeners the chance to pay tribute to someone who has helped or inspired others with their passion and commitment to their organisation/community project/sporting group or field of excellence.
The response was overwhelming with over 200 exceptional nominees across five categories, of which i98 then had to expand the Volunteer of the Year category into two descriptions due to the high calibre of quality nominations.
• Volunteer of the Year (People & Community)
• Volunteer of the year (Sport & Recreation)
• Sports Star of the Year – Junior
• Sports Star of the Year – Senior
• Teacher of the Year
• Local Hero of the Year
Former Australian Test Captain and Cricket Legend, Steve Waugh and WIN Television’s National Daytime Variety Host Susie Elelman joined i98 FM breakfast hosts Marty and Erica on the judging panel to determine the Illawarra’s Local Heroes.
Marty and Erica broadcast live from the City Beach Function Centre in Wollongong for the inaugural i98/ahm Local Hero Awards Ceremony. Steve Waugh and Susie Elelman were also in attendance to announce and personally congratulate all winners, including Dr. Irwin Pakula who was the recipient of the top Local Hero award for his on going dedication to the Mental Health Service over the past 30 years.
Steve Waugh generously donated his time and support to the i98/ahm Local Hero Awards and summed up the Awards by saying that “we all know someone who donates their time to a worthy cause or excels in their field…. and this initiative is a great way to recognise that”.