Smithton Lions Club’s Citizen of the Year for 2019 is Lizzy Gale. 

A familiar face in the Smith Street store Lizzy’s This ’n’ That, the local legend is known for many community projects. 

Established in 2013, the World War I Centenary Committee set out to recognise and commemorate the contributions of Circular Head veterans. 

Together the committee has completed a Boer War memorial, Vietnam veterans memorial, World War I memorials in Smithton, Stanley and Marrawah and a sculpture of poppies at Anzac Park in Smithton. 

A reflection space has been created outside Circular Head RSL where seats, silhouettes and a mural designed by local students provide a place for community members to take a moment to remember the sacrifices of this country’s people. 

Lizzy has worked behind the scenes to achieve all of this and more. 

She has volunteered her time to researching, sourcing and compiling enlistment papers, certificates, photographs and other information on local veterans in a bid to preserve our history. 

She has spent hours applying for funding for these projects and many more and this year alone the committee was successful in gaining four of five grants applied for. This will go towards organising local Anzac Day and Vietnam Veterans and Remembrance Day services as well as the proposed Memorial Trail at Anzac Park. 

As a founding member of Tarkine Coast Progress Group – formerly Circular Head Progress Group – Lizzy has contributed to various projects throughout the past decade that have made a mark on the region. 

She is a committee member of Circular Head Retail Group and has instigated several business projects and promotions. 

“Lizzy encourages all businesses to think big and comes up with brilliant ideas to enhance retail therapy in Circular Head,” Lions member Sheryl Robson says. 

Contributing to the Friday Frenzy, Lighting of the Christmas Tree festivities and various retail promotions, Lizzy has the future of Circular Head in the forefront of her mind at all times. 

“Lizzy has great vision for our community and her input in all projects is valued,” says Sheryl. 

“[She] has opened the door to others and makes sure she can assist in any way she can.” 

A true team member, Lizzy recognised the work of others in accepting the honour. 

“I have been fortunate to be involved with committee members that are passionate and willing to work hard towards finding a way to achieve and assist with projects for a community we are all proud of,” she says.

Smithton Lions Club members Sheryl Robson and John Bergman presented Lizzy Gale with the Citizen of the Year honour last week. Picture: Ashleigh Force.