RECORD NUMBER RECOGNISED AT SENIORS LOCAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall, centre, congratulating members of the Friends of McMaugh Gardens on being recognised at this week’s Seniors Local Achievement Awards ceremony, Sandra Ward, left, Gail McFarlane, Secretary Rosemary Reading, Treasurer Erica Barwell, Brian Weis, Shirley Weis (front), Bev Carlon (back), Marg Gream (front) and Gae Baker (back).

Thursday, 31 March 2022

A RECORD number of dedicated, hardworking residents have been recognised for their contribution to their communities, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall earlier this week presenting 31 Local Achievement Awards, as part of the 2022 NSW Seniors Festival.

Award winners received their honour at the annual Armidale Care for Senior’s Seniors Festival event on Monday, to recognise their valuable contribution to the community.

Mr Marshall said it was a privilege to present the awards to such a committed group of volunteers.

“With 31 recipients, this is the highest number of nominees ever for these awards and to me this shows just how appreciative our community is of everything they do,” Mr Marshall said.

“This year there is a diverse range of recipients – individuals who go above and beyond to support those in need and improve the social landscape of our region.

“Evan Thomson, Matthew Pennycuick, Michael Petrov and Gai Brennan have all been recognised for their work as volunteer drivers with Tablelands Community Transport – getting older residents safely to the shops, medical appointments and social outings in Uralla and Armidale.

“As volunteer cooks, Iain Hamilton and Robyn Wheeler make sure Tablelands Community Support clients are provided with nourishing meals, while volunteer Social Support Worker Sarah Bates has helped provide many with the tools to remain independent in their home.

“Armidale’s Michael Bourke has been awarded for his volunteering with the Cancer Council’s patient transport service, along with Annette Connolly who has given 17 years as volunteer Client Liaison Officer with Can Assist.

“Bev Holden’s efforts as a Legatee has seen her raise much needed funds for Legacy Australia, supporting local families of defence force personnel.

“Guyra Home Support Service has been represented this year by regular volunteer drivers Stuart Broad, Narelle Levin and Kim Shone.

“15 volunteers from Armidale Care for Seniors have been recognised for their ongoing service, assisting with social activities, outings and providing transport services.

“I am also pleased to see three prominent volunteer organisations recognised this year including Friends of McMaugh Gardens in Uralla, the Armidale campus of University of the Third Age and Armidale and District Historical Society.

“I congratulate and thank them all for their generous contributions, remarkable skills and extensive knowledge which continues to make the Northern Tablelands a caring place to live.”