The Premier’s award is only given to two local residents every year and before visiting Mr Ward at his office, Mr Clingan was not aware of the honour.

Mr Ward said that Mr Clingan received this prestigious Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to our local community.

“Darrell is a real unsung hero after serving many years as Chair of the South Precinct Committee in Gerringong,” he said.

“He has been an influential figure in our local community and played a key part in several community projects from the Gerringong upgrade of our Princes Highway a few years ago to improving the safety of our wildlife at the Union Creek bridge crossing in Belinda Street, Gerringong.

“He is a well-known and respected local identity who has given much of his time in the pursuit of assisting others and helping to build a stronger local community. I recall his great work in such wonderful local organisations as Kiama Community Transport.

“Darrell Clingan is a very worthy receipt of the Premier’s Community Service Award – he makes our community a better place,” Mr Ward concluded.

Mr Clingan and his wife Irene retired to Gerringong and since making the move south from Sydney, have become heavily involved in community events and affairs, constantly putting service above self.

“It’s a great honour,” Mr Clingan said

“I’m extremely honoured to be given this award.”

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