Volunteers named Wingecarribee Shire’s top citizens

27 January, 2016Posted in: Community, Events
 ,

Tireless Southern Highland volunteer Kathy Roche has been named Wingecarribee Shire’s 2016 Australia Day Citizen of the Year.

The former pharmacist with a passion for the environment has spent years volunteering and fundraising throughout the Shire.

Pastoral Care, Youth off the Streets and Freedom from Hunger are just some of the volunteer organisations Kathy has devoted time to.

Kathy was also a Pony Club instructor for many years and was the first woman on the Moss Vale & District AH & I Committee where she served for 25 years.

Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Amelia Brook.

The 12 year old Moss Vale High student was also nominated for her volunteerism, generosity and leadership qualities that belie her young age.

An enthusiastic member of the Moss Vale Girl Guides Unit, Amelia was recognised for always being first in line to help with fund raising.  Recent projects that Amelia has assisted with include the promotion of the Girl Guides movement and conservation of Taronga Zoo.

Only last year Amelia was acknowledged for her achievements and contributions to fundraising at a function at Government House attended by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.

Wingecarribee Shire Mayor, Councillor Larry Whipper congratulated both recipients saying they were shining examples of the Southern Highlands community spirit.

“We are very lucky to have such dedicated, hardworking and compassionate people in our Shire,” he said.  “There is no doubt our Shire is a better place as a result of their selfless contributions.”

“The Australia Day Awards provide an opportunity for Council to recognise those residents who continue to work for the betterment of the community,” the Mayor added.

“Choosing just two recipients from such a wonderful selection of nominees was a truly difficult task.”

Both recipients will be presented with their awards during Wingecarribee Shire’s Australia Day celebrations at Berrima this Tuesday 26 January starting from 9.30am.