Valerie Broad OAM was recognised for her instrumental role in establishing the Bendigo Youth Choir to spread the life-changing power of music in the city. 

The tireless volunteer also set up a disability support network. 

“I am definitely going to wear out, I’m not going to rust out,” Ms Broad said. 

The singer, who set up the choir some 30 years ago, said music was a “wonderful tool” for young and old. 

“It helps their development, but more importantly it's enjoyable, they learn teamwork and how to give,” she said. 

“Music is therapeutic. I have seen what it can do with sick people, for people who are grieving.

“People who love music are different inside.”

Her resolve to establish Sternberg Lodge and a disability support network was born out of personal experience: some of her close friends had severe disabilities and ageing parents who needed respite. 

Through the choir, Ms Broad has shared Bendigo with the world and welcomed refugees. 

Primary school teacher Breanna Thomas has been named Bendigo’s young citizen of the year. 

Rather than taking a break, in her school holidays Ms Thomas volunteers at camps for children who have been abused or neglected at Southern Cross Kids Camp in Bendigo. 

For Ms Thomas, the smile on the children’s faces makes her efforts worthwhile.

“It's not a lot for me to give up a week, but for those kids, to have a smile on their face, to experience something new, is very important,” she said. 

“One of the hardest things is knowing that we have got them for a week and then we send them home.

“But it makes it easier knowing they have had a good time and are making memories … it gives a little bit of hope.”

She also gives her time to children diagnosed with cancer at Camp Quality. 

“Cancer now is very close to my heart, I've lost my uncle and my nan ...but it's different with kids, because they hardly talk about it,” she said. 

“You're not there to dwell on the sadness, you're there to make the most of it.”

City of Greater Bendigo mayor Rod Fyffe said it was an honour to announce two of Bendigo’s most generous women as this year’s citizen and young citizen of the year. 

Cr Fyffe bestowed the city’s highest honour on musician Valerie Broad OAM and teacher Breanna Thomas ahead of Australia Day celebrations next Tuesday. 

“The Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year awards represent what it truly means to be a great community member and again residents have nominated two worthy recipients for this annual accolade,” he said.

“They will be fantastic role models for people to look up to, for the young and the old.

“I congratulate Valerie and Bree on their outstanding contribution to our community and wish them well on Australia Day and throughout the next 12 months as they serve as ambassadors for Greater Bendigo.”

Bendigo will host Australia Day celebrations at Lake Weeroona between 10am to 3pm with entertainment, a craft market, food stalls and displays, and a citizenship ceremony at 10.30am.