Beachport’s Liam Mills is a lobster boat deckhand, professional photographer, surf lifesaver and now an Australia Day Citizen of the Year.

He was awarded the Wattle Range Council Kintore Ward Citizen of the Year at the annual Australia Day breakfast at Centennial Park at Beachport last week.

The presentation was made before a large crowd by ward councillors Richard Cassidy and Sharon Cox.

The 21-year-old was given this honour in acknowledgement for all the work he does within the Beachport Surf Life Saving Club and the seaside community in general.

“Being an inaugural member in 2015 when he was just 14, Liam has built his skills and qualifications up to being the most qualified member of the club,” a Beachport Surf Life Saving Club spokesman said.

“He holds a silver medallion in advanced rescue, is a qualified inflatable rescue boat and jetski driver along with only one of eight in the state qualified to operate drones.

“Most of this training has been in his own time and in Adelaide.

“He is passionate about photography, with his work on display on the large Beachport town signs along with multiple entries in art galleries.

“Liam is a great role model for young people and we are proud to call him our own.”

The Kintore Ward Community Event of the Year was awarded to the inaugural Beachport Crayfish Festival which was held in Centennial Park almost a year ago.

No Young Citizen of the Year was awarded for Kintore Ward this year.

The breakfast catering was undertaken by the Lions Club of Beachport and Rivoli Bay.