A local woman, who teamed her love of sport and charity work, has been awarded the City of Mandurah’s September Local Legends award.
Bev Jackson has been a member of the Mandurah Country Club for 54 years and in that time organised an annual a golf day to raise funds for breast cancer.
The day raised $1500 in its first year. Now, almost 25 years later, the total amount raised is over $230,000.
Over that time Ms Jackson has been the driving force behind this initiative.
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The keen golfer saw the opportunity to contribute to the community when the local Zonta International Club received a passionate letter from the Queen Elizabeth II Cancer Centre.
The facility was desperate for support for breast cancer research because there had been government cut backs.
The golf charity day is only the tip of the iceberg of what Ms Jackson does for the community.
She has also been a charter member for the Peel Zonta Club.
“We are heavily involved in the issue of domestic violence, we provide birthing kits, and we support women in the community, “ Ms Jackson said.
“But I also get lots out of being a member – it is character building to help the community.
“I would encourage young women to join.”
Mandurah mayor Rhys Williams said he was particularly excited to present Ms Jackson with her award.
He said her contribution to Mandurah had been mentioned by so many people, including former Mayor Paddi Creevey.
“Bev’s contribution has been a long term contribution,” Mr Williams said.
“For almost a quarter of a century Bev has given of her time and energy to the cause of breast cancer research.
“And that is only the giving that is obvious, I also understand that she has been a leader in Zonta, and a fantastic networker, who really knows how to get things done.
“Like all our local legends, Bev is very quiet about her achievements – this seems to be a characteristic of those who give to the community.
“Every community needs these quiet and selfless achievers.
“If you know of someone you think deserves to be a Local Legend please don’t hesitate to contact me.”