A number of volunteers, both individuals and groups, were recognised by Federal MP Tony Smith in the 2021 Casey Volunteer and Community Awards.
Receiving the honour of a special recognition certificate was Lilydale’s Hannah Harris for her dedication and service to the SES and the Army Reserve.
During the 2019/20 bushfires, Hannah developed considerable expertise in radio telecommunications that resulted in her receiving an Army ‘Commanders Award for Excellence’.
Tony Smith congratulated all the award recipients and said it was a honour part of his time as MP to see the talent, commitment and passion of many local volunteers.
“Over the past seven years, I’ve had the privilege of recognising nearly 300 individuals and 50 local groups across the Casey electorate for their inspirational commitment and dedication to our local community,” he said.
“We are extremely fortunate to have so many outstanding people working in and for our community who deserve recognition for their hard work, energy and passion to support others; often caring for those most in need.”
Individuals recognised as part of the awards were:
Chris Clifton of Mount Evelyn, nominated by Coldstream Primary School
Gary Burgess of Chirnside Park, nominated by Caladenia Dementia Care.
Jason Leitch of Mount Evelyn, nominated by Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery
Maria Vassilopoulos of Coldstream, nominated by First Impressions Clothing Exchange
John Sumner, Stuart Fraser and Geoff Dawson of Mount Evelyn, as well as Jim Brown of Wandin North were nominated by Mount Evelyn RSL
Chelsey Cooper of Montrose, nominated by Montrose Recreation Reserve Committee
Sue Thompson of Kilsyth, nominated by Lilydale Historical Society
