Chief Minister Katy Gallagher is reminding people to nominate for the Canberra Citizen of the Year and the Canberra Gold Awards, which will be presented in March 2012 to coincide with our city's 99th Birthday celebrations.

"I'd like to encourage Canberrans to nominate individuals or groups for the 2012 Citizen of the Year award. Nominees can come from any field, including the arts, education, community work or business for example," the Chief Minister said.

"The 2011 recipient Ms Maureen Cane was recognised for her contribution to the community through her role as Chief Executive Officer of Communities@Work from 2001 to 2011.

"The Canberra Gold Chief Minister's Awards are open to individuals or groups who have resided or operated in the ACT for 50 years or more, as at 12 March each year.

"The awards recognise the unique contribution made by those who have chosen to make a long-term commitment to the ACT," the Chief Minister said.

A total of 2538 individuals and 44 groups have now received a Gold award since its inception in 2005.
The Chief Minister would also like to wish the ACT finalists for the Australian of the Year awards the best of luck when they are presented on January the 25th.

ACT Finalists include: Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, as the ACT Australian of the year; Ms Betty Churcher, ACT Senior Australian of the Year; Dr Sam Prince, ACT Young Australian of the Year; and Ms Julie Tongs, ACT Local Hero.

Nominations for Canberra Citizen of the Year and the Canberra Gold Chief Ministers awards can be made online at www.cmd.act.gov.au/communication or by calling 6205 3031.