In a tradition hailing back to medieval times, two community members were bestowed the honour of being hailed freeman of the City of Busselton.
Former mayor Ian Stubbs and the honourable Barry House were both recognised for their commitment to the community and its people.
The award has now been granted to 14 individuals for their exceptional contribution to the community of the City of Busselton.
Mayor Grant Henley said the decision to make someone a freeman of the city was not taken lightly and only went to individuals who made lasting contributions to the region.
“That is certainly the case for Ian and Barry,” he said.
“Barry’s history almost makes him local royalty.
“Ian’s contribution to the community is inspiring.”
Mr House said he was extremely humbled to receive the award, but the recognition belonged to the community he was fortunate enough to live in and belong to.
“We live in a fantastic part of the world, the longer I live here the more I am convinced that is right. We have a natural advantage, we have isolation and that’s an advantage,” he said.
Mr House said there were many innovative, hard working people in the community and examples which illustrated this were the community banding together at all levels to save the jetty, CinefestOz and development of the region’s wine industry.
“This award is humbling and I am proud to be sharing it with 13 others. I gained inspiration from my grandfather Frank Jollife, I am very humbled and proud,” he said.
"It is an enormous privilege to have this honour bestowed upon me.”
Mr Stubbs said he was very honoured to receive the award and while it was totally unexpected he was delighted for the recognition.
“I thought, why me? There are many people doing great things, it never entered my mind I would be coming up here,” he said.
“I haven’t worked on my own, I I have been surrounded by wonderful people. The City of Busselton is filled with some great people including chief executive officer Mike Archer leading the staff.”
Mr Stubbs said his time on council was not always easy, there were many difficult times but they were able to work through it.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed doing my bit for the district,” he said.
“I see the City of Busselton only as a glass half full, it’s in great shape with exciting times ahead.”
Related content