Community
6 November, 2024
Local volunteers celebrated
VOLUNTEERS from across the district were toasted for their dedication and commitment to the local community recently.
Member for Wannon Dan Tehan hosted the 2024 Wannon Sport and Volunteer Awards at a ceremony in Ararat.
For the Volunteer Awards ceremony, guest speakers Leila McDougall and Daniel Buckingham joined Mr Tehan.
Mrs McDougall is the Tatyoon farmer, actor, scriptwriter and producer behind the film Just A Farmer which raises awareness of the mental health struggles faced by rural communities.
Mr Buckingham was awarded the Citizen of the Year by the Ararat Rural City Council in the 2024 Australia Day awards in recognition of the countless hours he has contributed to numerous organisations.
Mr Tehan said there were 47 recipients of the Volunteer Awards.
“I was inspired to read about the individuals and groups whose hard work is having such a positive impact on our communities,” he said.
“Their dedication is truly commendable.”
Mr Tehan said volunteering one’s “time or talents” for charitable, educational and other worthwhile activities plays a vital role in enabling rural communities to flourish.
“These awards allow me to show my appreciation for the selfless work that individuals and groups have carried out in our community, often behind the scenes,” he said.
Local Volunteer Award recipients included:
Youth Volunteer Awards
Alysa Hibburt – Port Campbell: Ms Hibburt was commended for her roles as patrol captain and special events co-ordinator at the Port Campbell Surf Life Saving Club, where she organises annual fundraisers like beach volleyball and swim raffles;
Susanna Ryan – Timboon: Ms Ryan was touted as an exceptional leader and role model at the Port Campbell Surf Life Saving Club. She was recognised as the Corangamite Shire Youth Volunteer of the Year for 2024 and a finalist for Life Saving Victoria’s Youth Lifesaver of the Year.
Group Volunteer Awards:
Timboon Opportunity Shop – Timboon: The Timboon Opportunity Shop has made a significant impact on the local community, distributing $50,000 to a variety of community groups. This generosity is a result of the dedication shown by their loyal volunteers and the support of the community.
Emergency Management Awards:
Christopher Gaut – Cobden: Mr Gaut was recognised for his exceptional contributions to the CFA in Cobden. As foreman of the Cobden Fire Brigade, he has shown leadership and commitment. Mr Gaut has earned a host of prestigious accolades such as the CFA National Medal, a Conduct of Bravery Medal, and a Certificate of Merit from the Royal Humane Society; and
David McKenzie – Newfield: Mr McKenzie has dedicated more than 60 years to the Port Campbell Surf Life Saving Club, where is a founding and active member. He has held multiple leadership roles at the club and remains an active patrolling member, earning more than 90 lifesaving training wards.
Inspiring Individual Award
Ashley Fagan – Cobden: Mr Fagan recognised for his 45 years of service with the Cobden Fire Brigade and the CFA, proudly continuing his family’s legacy as a third-generation firefighter. He has actively participated in numerous hose and bushfires across Australia with strike teams; and
Robert Matthews – Timboon: Mr Matthews was commended for being an “outstanding volunteer in the Corangamite Shire” and is involved in the Port Campbell Surf Life Saving Club, Port Campbell Community Emergency Response Team and is involved with committees for Timboon Basketball and the Timboon Demons Football Netball Club.
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