From Rubbish Bag to Role Model: Refugee's Moving Message at Maitland Citizenship Ceremony
In a powerful display of resilience and hope, Hazara refugee Asif Sultani took to the stage at Maitland's Australia Day citizenship ceremony to share his remarkable journey. Arriving in Maitland at just 16 years old from Afghanistan, Mr Sultani came with only a few belongings carried in a rubbish bag and could not speak a word of English. Now, as a newly minted Australian citizen, he delivered an inspiring address that resonated deeply with the 21 individuals being welcomed into the nation.
A Story of Hope and Community Support
Mr Sultani, who officially became an Australian citizen in December, used his platform to affirm the strength of multiculturalism. He encouraged all new citizens to give back to the community that had supported him so profoundly. "I'm sure that lots of you here today have also been supported in incredible ways by the Maitland community, and I encourage you to share stories, to continue to connect with the locals," he said. His message underscored the idea that multiculturalism is a strength, with much to learn from one another's diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Celebrating New Citizens and Local Heroes
The ceremony was filled with moments of joy, hope, and appreciation, not only welcoming new citizens but also honouring deserving residents with Maitland City Council Australia Day awards. Among the highlights was the recognition of Trevor Lynch, named Maitland's Citizen of the Year. A former teacher and committed Rotarian, Mr Lynch has been instrumental in launching Maitland HealthStays, a project aimed at providing affordable accommodation near Maitland Hospital for those travelling for medical treatment. Land has been purchased in Metford, with a development application currently under council review.
Mr Lynch humbly accepted the award, stating, "This particular award, this Citizen of the Year really isn't for me, it's for the team of people who come together to do this." He concluded with an anonymous quote: "When you give your time, you plant seeds of kindness that grow far beyond what you can see."
Young Achievers and Community Champions
Meg Jackson, 25, was honoured as Maitland's Young Citizen of the Year for her dedication to all-abilities sports coaching and psychology research. As an assistant coach, she advocates for inclusivity in netball and touch football, while her academic work focuses on child sports anxiety, aiming to influence future policies. Other award winners included:
- Luke Mullard, a 13-year-old hero who saved 92-year-old Roma Wilson from a house fire in November 2025, receiving a special bravery award.
- Carol Coffey, awarded the City of Maitland Service Award for her extensive volunteer work with the Rotary Club of East Maitland.
- Maitland Patchwork Quilters, recognised with the City of Maitland Medal for supporting those experiencing homelessness.
- Arwen Kavanagh, named Sportsperson of the Year for her success in softball at club, state, national, and international levels, including representing Australia's under-18s women's team.
- Alcyon Manen, honoured as Creative Arts Person of the Year for her contributions to Maitland's musical theatre scene as a performer, set designer, choreographer, and director.
The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the power of community, resilience, and the shared values that unite Australians from all walks of life.
