AT the recent Volunteer and Sports Awards ceremony in Ararat, hosted by Wannon MP Dan Tehan, many in the local community were presented with certificates in recognition of their service.
In the volunteer category, in recognition of their hard work and dedication to making the lives of children with cancer more bearable, volunteers at the Crystal Lee Foundation Op Shop in Hamilton and Koroit were given an award.
The Hamilton Institute of Rural Learning (HIRL) team was recognised for its contribution to the community over the past 44 years.
The Western District Health Services Op Shop volunteer team was also recognised for providing vital social and economic support for 85 years.
Grant Bedwell of Port Fairy was recognised for his dedicated voluntary service of over 60 years to emergency services as a volunteer with the Port Fairy Marine Search and Rescue.
For his voluntary work within the Coleraine sports community over many years, Christian Barker of Hilgay was recognised.
Wallacedale’s Leonie Bell was recognised as being a driving force at the Branxholme Wallacedale Football Netball Club since 2008, when she stepped in to prevent its closure due to the decline of the facilities.
Mary-Ann Brown from Dunkeld was recognised for her unwavering dedication to community service, gender equality, and the promotion of tourism and the arts.
For managing and maintaining Mallangeeba Scout Camp, earning a Good Service Award for her exceptional contributions, Margaret Lyon of Hamilton was recognised.
She has also volunteered for over a decade at the Pastoral Museum, where her efforts in preserving local history have been invaluable.
Peter Lyon of Hamilton, (husband of Margaret) was recognised for his dedication of over 40 years to Scouts Australia, starting as a leader at the 2nd Hamilton Scout Group before taking on various roles within the Wannon and Glenelg River districts.
Balmoral’s Debra Mutch was recognised for teaching children to swim for over 40 years. As a staunch advocate for the Balmoral pool, she promotes swimming as a fun and inclusive way to stay active.
This upcoming summer season marks her 21st year of instruction with the Balmoral Lap Club.
