Kevin Hogan (Page, National Party, Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

I'd like to acknowledge and congratulate members of my electorate who received OAMs and Australia Day Awards in the Coffs Harbour City Council area.

Annette and Jean-Pierre Reifler of Glenreagh both received OAMs for service to our community's health services. Julie and Neville Womersley from Woolgoolga were both awarded OAMs for their service to Woolgoolga bowling club.

The Coffs Harbour Citizen of the Year Award was awarded to Jean Vickery. Jean is the current president of the Woolgoolga Lions Club and has used her commitment in that role to raise funds for drought and fire relief appeals, CanDo Cancer Trust, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, the renal unit at the Base Hospital and the Disabled Surfers Association. Jean has been a longstanding and active member of the Woolgoolga Red Cross. Congratulations, Jean.

Olissa Onley of Sapphire Beach was named Sportsperson of the Year. In 2019 alone she achieved exceptional results at a national level in five different sports: surf lifesaving, triathlon, football, cross-country and athletics. Congratulations to Olissa.

I'd like to congratulate those in the Clarence Valley who received OAMs and Australia Day awards at the recent ceremony. It was a wonderful event to be at. Trevor Plymin, from James Creek, was awarded an OAM for his service to veterans and their families. Bob Carnaby, of South Grafton, was given a Clarence Valley Citizen of the Year Award for his ongoing generosity and constant giving to numerous services. Pat Connelly, from Grafton, also received a Clarence Valley Citizen of the Year Award. Pat has been helping the community for over 50 years, volunteering and being part of charity groups and sporting clubs. Pat was also awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia, an OAM, in 2019. Young Citizen of the Year was presented to Eden Annesley in recognition of her significant contribution as concertmaster of the Clarence Valley Orchestra and Chorus. What a wonderful event that always is. And the Clarence Valley Community Achievement Award was presented to the Yamba Lions Club, who do amazing things in our community. From running fundraisers to serving meals at Yamba seasonal events, they're always available to help. Norma Jenkins was recognised as the Clarence Valley Local Hero for her visits to and ongoing support of the Mareeba Aged Care facility. She visits the facility every week on her motorised scooter, distributing chocolates, fruit, lollies and magazines to everyone and conversing with as many residents as she can. Congratulations and thank you to you all.

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