From the Lord Mayor's Office
Building community connections
Last night, I had the pleasure of presenting the Keys to the City to mixed martial arts world champion Alex Volkanovski in front of his family and a crowd of die-hard fans of all ages.
The city’s highest honour was presented to “The Volk” in honour of his sporting achievements and how he represented – and advocated – for Wollongong on the international stage.
Read more in Council’s Media Release: Loyal fans celebrate the reign as Volkanovski presented Keys to the City | City of Wollongong
While the concept of receiving the keys to a city dates back to medieval times, what these keys signify remains relevant today.
The keys recognise the importance of the individual and the trust the community has in them. It shows an alignment of their values with that of the broader community.
We have some amazing and talented people in Wollongong doing incredible things.
And while this year we’ve awarded the keys to sporting superstars – the community-focussed Illawarra Hawks with their slogan “we rise together” and The Volk – I’m encouraging everyone to consider those everyday heroes who are working to make this city a better place for all.
Later this year we’ll do a call out for nominations for the City of Wollongong Awards.
Now is the time to be thinking about those people, organisations and groups from all walks of life that are doing amazing things.
Let’s recognise these wonderful and inspirational individuals who help to build a positive and vibrant community and who bring our city to life through their hard work, passion and energy.
Write their names down now and then, when the time comes, we’ll be ready to recognise the best of Wollongong in 2025.
