NATIONAL Volunteers Week runs from May 11-17 and I had the pleasure of celebrating first-hand with some of the municipality's wonderful volunteers.
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I was invited to celebrations held to acknowledge the work done by our many volunteers and I am most thankful for their efforts.
The Kiama Show Society held its annual meeting on May 8. As the society moves into its 168th year, we heard of the hard work of the outgoing president David Young and his committee in the organising of the 2015 annual show.
This iconic, popular show relies on the efforts of the committee and members who make sure it continues to be a great success. Congratulations to Mr Young and his committee, and to newly elected show president Michael Brennan.
On May 11, the council held a special event to recognise the great contribution by volunteers who help in Blue Haven Care, community transport, the Kiama Library and Family History Centre and in our broad community services. Thanks to the wonderful volunteers, many of our residents are given assistance and support in their daily lives.
On May 12, I attended the Red Cross Zone 28 meeting hosted by the Jamberoo branch. The three Red Cross branches in our municipality have just completed 100 years of service and it was great to see and hear of the work they continue to do both locally and internationally. I congratulate the presidents - Barbara Adams (Jamberoo), Heidi Smith (Kiama) and Sue Ellis (Gerringong) - and their members.
On May 16, I was honoured to attend the Jamberoo Rural Fire Service 75th Anniversary and was delighted to see the service awards presented to brigade members by Assistant Commissioner Stuart Midgley (AFSM). There were 10- to 50-year service medals awarded to 11 members, with special congratulations going to John Downs (50 years), John Fry (40) and brigade Captain Craig Harris (30).
The brigade is a vital part of the emergency response team in Jamberoo area, and the dedication and the training the members undertake are significant.
Then, on May 17, the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club held its annual prizegiving. The club has been in operation since 1908 and it was wonderful to see so many members attend the event which showcases the training and community work required to patrol our beaches to protect the community. Congratulations to the president John Ford and his hardworking team on a great year, and special congratulations to the clubs newest life member Nick McInerney.
Congratulations to all our volunteers. They add enormously to our community's spirit and wellbeing.