Deniliquin’s 2019 Hidden Treasures nominees - Judith Bond, Carol David, Judy Doddridge, Gillian Fraser, Margaret Jefferies, Kay Smith, Margaret Stanworth, Maureen Strutt and Denise Thomas - have all been valued volunteers for the Edward River Council for many years.
All of the volunteers who were recognised help out at the Deniliquin Visitor Information Centre, but for some this is only part of their community commitment.
Mayor Norm Brennan said he was thrilled that so many of the Visitor Information Centre volunteers had been acknowledged last year.
‘‘To have nine volunteers from Deniliquin represented on the list of 78 nominees from across New South Wales is incredible, and it really highlights the important role volunteers play in our local community,’’ he said.
‘‘Some of our volunteers have provided more than 20 years of service, which just goes to show how dedicated these ladies are.
‘‘Without the commitment and generosity of these volunteers it wouldn’t be possible to operate our Visitor Information Centre.’’
The announcement of the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll was a highlight of the 27th Rural Women’s Gathering in Walcha and made by Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women Bronnie Taylor.
Judy Bond
In between her travels with husband Frank, Judy volunteers each Monday at the Deniliquin Visitor Information Centre. As an experienced caravanner she provides visitors with wonderful insight into the best spots to camp, eat and experience during their stay. Judy is a very active member of the community and also volunteers at other community organisations such as the Lions Club.Carol David – Carol volunteers each Monday at the Deniliquin Visitor Information Centre, where she warmly welcomes each visitor into the centre and helps promote the town and its many attractions. Carol’s enthusiasm and diverse local knowledge make her a valued member of the team. She has been volunteering at the centre for 10 years.
Judy Doddridge
After retiring in 2008, Judy was able to increase her involvement in the community. She is the secretary of the Deniliquin Garden Club, secretary of St Paul’s Anglican Church and visits Navorina nursing home each Thursday afternoon with a small group of singers to entertain the residents. Judy volunteers each Wednesday at the Deniliquin Visitor Information Centre. She is renowned for her kind nature and diverse local knowledge. She had been a volunteer at the centre for 10 years.
Gillian Fraser
With career experience as an assistant, nanny, administration officer, art gallery manager and horse stable assistant, Gillian brings a range of skills to the team of volunteers at the Deniliquin Visitor Information Centre. She is renowned for her strong work ethic at the centre.
Margaret Jefferies
Margaret’s community work started early, when she was a volunteer of the Napier Special School, which led to part-time employment as a special teacher’s aide at Deniliquin South Public School and Deniliquin High School. She then went on to manage a community tourism and accommodation facility with her husband. It lent itself nicely to a new role at the Deniliquin Visitor Information Centre. Margaret is also a co-curator of the project to commemorate the No. 7 Service Flying Training School which operated from Deniliquin Airport during World War II.
Kay Smith
Kay volunteers each Wednesday at the Deniliquin Visitor Information Centre, where she warmly welcomes each visitor into the centre and helps promote the town and its many attractions. Kay’s vibrant personality and stories make her a valued member of the team. Kay has also been a dedicated volunteer for the Deniliquin Pastoral & Agricultural Society since coming to Deniliquin.
Margaret Stanworth
Margaret volunteers each Tuesday at the Deniliquin Visitor Information Centre and is known for her attention to detail and extensive knowledge of the local area.
Maureen Strutt
Since retiring from nursing in 2015, Maureen gives many hours of her time each week as a volunteer in the Deniliquin community. She dedicates at least seven hours each week at the Deniliquin Visitor Information Centre. She also spends two afternoons a week at the Orana Aged Care Hostel and is also a founding member of its newly established Orana Auxiliary. Maureen is also president of the Meals on Wheels Committee and she delivers Meals on Wheels in Deniliquin twice a month.
Denise Thomas
Volunteer work for Denise was initially through school P&C committees. In later years she was a member of the inaugural committee for the Deni Ute Muster, serving two terms as president. Before becoming a dedicated volunteer at the Deniliquin Visitor Information Centre, Denise worked at the centre for 18 years. Denise is also a co-curator of the project to commemorate the No. 7 Service Flying Training School which operated from Deniliquin Airport during World War II.