Peter Hendy (Eden-Monaro, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On Tuesday, 1 September I had the pleasure of attending the 2015 New South Wales Volunteer of the Year Awards ceremony at the Cooma Ex-Services Club. There we celebrated the work of those many volunteers in our local communities who so generously give their time and employ their skills to help others. The awards program is an initiative of the Centre for Volunteering, the peak body for volunteering in New South Wales. This ceremony in Cooma celebrated the great work of volunteers in the south-eastern corner of New South Wales. Bega Valley Mayor, Michael Britten, and Cooma Deputy Mayor, Rogan Corbett, joined me in presenting awards and certificates.

Eden Marine High School took out the student team award. Over 60 Marine High students have been involved in a community service program helping the elderly. Representing them at the awards were Kiara Banks, Nikea Kebby and Verin Sampson. Berridale's Benjamin Hearn was recognised for his contribution to cricket in the region. The region's overall winner was Heather Foggett of Queanbeyan-based Capes 4 Kids. This fine organisation sends handmade capes to sick children, providing then with an 'armour' to get them through hospital visits and tough times. Please visit their website, Capes 4 Kids Australia, and please support the volunteers who make this nation great. As the member for Eden-Monaro I take particular pleasure in acknowledging the award winners from this electorate.