Two citizens honoured

Long time Neerim district resident Irene Hore was recognised as community citizen of the year at Neerim South’s Australia Day ceremony.

Mark Long also was recognised posthumously with an award.

The leading citizens were announced at a smaller than usual ceremony for invited guests only because of COVID restrictions.

Irene, 95, was born in Western Australia where she became well known as a state hockey player. She was selected for the Australian team to travel to England, before World War II hostilities ended all non-essential travel.

After marrying her husband Aub, they migrated east to the Neerim district, where they settled down on a small dairy and potato farm at Nayook, raising three daughters and numerous foster children.

They immersed themselves in life around the Neerim district.

Irene was a great sportswoman enjoying success playing representative tennis and bowls. She was a 10 times club champion for Neerim District Bowling Club – a record she still holds.

Irene joined the Neerim Junction infant welfare committee, was a bowls club member, womens president and still goes to the club to watch games.

She also was a member of the CWA, mother’s club, Co-operating Church, Neerim District Agricultural Society and the Warragul Camera Club.

Irene was Neerim District girl guides leader for several years.

She worked at the Neerim District Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital as a cook and after her retirement, continued working for the hospital as a member of the womens guild.

Mark Long, who died last year, was recognised for his services to the Neerim district community.

The award was accepted by his wife Robyn. Mark and Robyn moved to Neerim East when they looked for a tree change and a place where Mark could continue his building design business.

He designed many local business premises including the supermarket, opportunity shop and many local homes.

However, his design skills were put to good use through his involvement with the wetlands project.

Mark’s design experience and Mike Horton’s drive led to development of the Neerim South wetlands including 22 natural springs.

Mark also will be long remembered in the town for his work in bringing the Neerim Bower sculpture project to life.

Mark Long was recognised posthumously for his work in the Neerim district and his award was accepted by (from left) his stepson Michael Gerlach, mother Shirley Long and wife Robyn Burfurd.

Irene Hore (centre) accepts the Neerim District citizen of the year award from Cr Peter Kostos (right) and supported by her daughter Annette Swaffield.