Some people go from day to day, and seldom cause a fuss -
these folk are pretty normal, pretty much like all of us
They do a bit around the house, sometimes help a neighbour out
And they’re almost model citizens, (they really have no doubt.)
But in each of our communities there are other folk out there
Who don’t quite fit that model because they are more aware
Of the needs of other people and they do all that they can do
To ensure that all around them get a benefit from them too
And I’d like to pay a tribute on this Australia Day
To those who make a difference in their very special way
Those who make the extra effort, those who go the extra mile
Those who give their time unsparingly, in inimitable style
These very special people don’t often stand out from the crowd
They’re not pompous, they’re not arrogant, their head’s not in a cloud
They are happy just to “do their thing”, to be just “left alone”
Though everybody knows these folk, their deeds are not well known
They’re typically behind the scenes, plain straight out volunteers
Doing work that all needs doing, they’ve been doing it for years
They’re the ones who keep things happening, they never seem to shirk
Making sure that everything’s in place - they’re the ones who do the work
They’re the backbone of communities, they carry a huge load
They are out there “doing”, all the time, always on the road
Helping out with “some-one else”, or on some association
Or fighting for another’s cause or tricky situation
They’re the well trained crew of the ambulance, they deliver meals on wheels
They seem to run the trading tables and Red Cross Appeals
In short they make things happen, as if there’s nothing to it
And for them, if it needs doing, well - they just get on and do it
Well today we see before us some fine examples of the kind
As valued to their communities as any you would find
And they’d probably rather not be here getting an award
Because to them to serve their community, is it’s own reward
They thrive on knowing some will benefit from the efforts that they make
And seldom count the personal cost, giving for another’s sake
But sometimes they are recognized and some are here today
For there’s a debt that our community can reimburse in some small way
So to all of the award winners, we’re so proud of all you’ve done
You’re the public face of Australia Day, and the awards that you have won
Are a symbol of recognition, and a form of commendation
From the broader full community to show our appreciation
And to the people represented as the Australian Citizens of the Year
The efforts that you have made you know, the rest of us hold dear
You work alone or work with others, you achieve, co-ordinate
You’re the type of people we should all be, and you make Australia Great.
And so congratulations for the efforts that all of you have made
You deserve the awards received today, the finest accolade
We place you on a pedestal, you are up there at the top
And I’m sure that while you’re able, your efforts will never stop.