Dedicated community members in the Shire of Murray were celebrated at a sundower and awards evening on May 22, as part of the local government’s annual National Volunteer Week program.
The event, held at Pinjarra’s Lessor Hall, commenced by recognising 48 volunteers who reached their 10 or 20 year service milestone.
Member for Murray-Wellington Robyn Clarke then joined shire president David Bolt for the presentation of the Shire of Murray’s 2018 Volunteer of the Year Awards.
Nominations were received across three award categories including Young Volunteer of the Year, Volunteer Community Group of the Year and Volunteer of the Year for people age 25 and over.
According to Mr Bolt, the number of nominations received for the Shire’s 2018 awards is the largest received to date.
“The shire is delighted with the response and grateful for the opportunity to show appreciation to our volunteers who often work behind the scenes, with little acknowledgement for their time and services donated,” Mr Bolt said.
Jared Evans was awarded the 2018 Young Volunteer of the Year for his ongoing efforts with Hotham Valley Tourist Railway.
“Jared has been an active member of the railway for several years and his keen interest in railways has seen Jared participate in several activities including passenger attendance, waiting and kitchen hand responsibilities on the Hotham Valley Restaurant Train, as well as assisting with track work, locomotives and rolling stock maintenance.
“Jared also completed Safe Work Training which enabled him to fill the position of trainee drivers assistant on diesel mechanical locomotives.
“Jared demonstrates tremendous maturity and has gained the confidence of fellow drivers,” Mr Bolt said.
Other category nominees included Kaitie Worthington for her efforts on the myVoice Youth Reference Group and Murray Music and Drama Club volunteers Michaela Gosby and Zoe Lyons for their ongoing dedication to club operations, while Michaela was further acknowledged for her volunteer work at Harvey Agricultural College and Riding for the Disabled.
Bedingfeld Ladies Auxiliary was named 2018 Volunteer Community Group of the Year in recognition of its efforts at Bedingfeld Lodge, supporting management to enhance the lives of lodge residents.
