Five outstanding local citizens were honoured at yesterday's Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony at the Hawthorn Town Hall.

The recipients of the Citizen of the Year and Volunteer of the Year awards were selected for such qualities as their passion for enhancing the community, commitment to civic responsibility, and participation in activities that benefit Boroondara.

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Heinz Kreutz commended the five award winners for the significant contribution they have each made to Boroondara, encouraging others in the community to adopt their selfless spirit.   
 
"Inspired by the American philosopher William James' famous words – 'Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does' – our five outstanding volunteers deserve every honour attributed to them," Cr Kreutz said.

"In our busy lives we seldom find the time to help others. Coralie White, Claire Poyser, Mary Muirhead, Doug McKern and Suzanne Bouillet are exceptional local residents who really have made a difference, and we thank them for it."

Kew resident Coralie White received the coveted Citizen of the Year Award for her long-time commitment to the Kew Neighbourhood Learning Centre, where she has fulfilled a variety of roles.

For more than 10 years, Coralie has spent her Saturday nights collecting and distributing food to underprivileged local residents, and she is also a dedicated Greythorn Football Club volunteer and assists the 1st Kew Scout Group.

Barely a year after receiving the Outstanding Community Service Award, Claire Poyser was presented the Young Citizen of the Year Award at the Australia Day ceremony.

At 19, Claire assists with the Foundation Boroondara Christmas Lunch, volunteers with the Australian Children's Trust, participates on the Red Cross Youth Advisory Council and was a coordinator for the Marysville Visitors Centre following the Black Saturday bushfires.

In 2011, she was selected to represent Australia at the G(irls) 20 Summit. Held in Paris, this four-day event looked at how girls and young women can help solve some of the world's greatest challenges.

The Volunteer of the Year Award went to Mary Muirhead, who is Director of the Learning for Life Autism Centre (L4Life).

The centre was Mary's brainchild and seeks to provide funds and intensive, early intervention programs to preschool children with an autism spectrum disorder.

Mary's determination and generosity has lead to the success and growth of the organisation in meeting the needs of many families seeking support for these life-changing programs.

The other awards – Special Commendation for Volunteering and Outstanding Community Service – went to Doug McKern and Suzanne Bouillet respectively.

In 2003, Doug joined TADVIC, a state-wide organisation that makes custom equipment for people with a disability.

A retired electrical engineer, Doug volunteers his time, skills and knowledge to help people live, work and play with greater independence.

Suzanne Bouillet, described as a "compassionate, mature and values-driven contributor" to the City of Boroondara's Tomorrow Makers youth leadership program, has displayed excellent leadership and teamwork skills and has been a strong advocate on youth mental health and environmental sustainability.

Suzanne is also highly regarded by the Preshil community for her commitment to social justice.