VALE Cecelia (‘Cis’) Sounness OAM

MR RICK WILSON MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR O’CONNOR

26th May 2026

Vale Cecilia ('Cis') Sounness OAM

Recently in Canberra I gave a short speech acknowledging the extraordinary life of Cecelia “Cis” Sounness OAM, whose remarkable longevity and unwavering commitment to her Plantagenet community leave a legacy few could ever match.

Cis Sounness passed away on the 19^th of April at the remarkable age of 103!

Her life was filled, from beginning to end, with service, generosity and an enduring belief in the importance of community.

One of six children born to Collie and Alice Moir in 1922, Cis was raised on the family farm at Amelup.

In 1941, both of her parents were tragically killed in a road accident on the Kalgan River bridge.

In July 1943, Cis married Frank Sounness, and bred Santa Gertrudis cattle at their Merryup Farm, and grew apples on their Muir Highway orchard.

Cis became not just a resident of the district, but one of its most recognisable and respected figures.

Her service to her community spanned more than eight decades.

Cis was a member of the Mount Barker Country Women’s Association since the early 1960’s serving as President over multiple terms, earning a Loyal Service Badge, and at the age of 102, she received a Branch Legend Award.

Cis gave over 30 years of service to the Mount Barker and Districts Agricultural Society, earning Life Membership in 1995.

She was a member of the Mount Barker Golf Club for 70 years, serving as Ladies Captain, President, and Patron, and still playing at the ripe old age of 100!

She was a foundation member of Plantagenet Village Homes, a dedicated hospital volunteer and a constant supporter of local sporting clubs, church and community activities.

Cis exemplified what it means to give back, and her contributions were rightfully recognised over the years.

In 1992 she was named Citizen of the Year for community service in the Shire of Plantagenet, received the WA Volunteer Service Badge in 2013, and in 2021 she was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia-one of our nation’s highest honours. 

Yet perhaps her greatest achievement was as a loving Mother of three, Grandmother of six, Great-grandmother of twelve, and Great-great grandmother of four.

I know she was a role model to countless generations, setting the example of a life grounded in kindness, humility, and a genuine willingness to help others.

On behalf of the broader O’Connor community, I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones.

In celebrating a life so well-lived, we are reminded of the profound impact one person can have.

Cecelia Sounness OAM will be deeply missed by all who loved her, but her legacy will endure in the community she helped build and in the generations she inspired.

Media Contact:

Reuben Keyser
Communications and Community Engagement Adviser
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