Contributions celebrated

Member for Wannon Dan Tehan has presented National Volunteer Awards and Australian Government Sports Awards at a ceremony in Ararat.

The ceremony recognised and celebrated individual and group volunteers who had made an outstanding contribution to their communities.

“These awards are my favourite time of the year as they celebrate the volunteers in Wannon who freely give their time to help others who are in need in one way or another,” he said.

National Volunteer Awards attendees heard from guest Dianne Radford, OAM, who shared insight and experiences about volunteering in Ararat district.

Later in the day Wannon athletes, coaches and sporting clubs won acknowledgement for outstanding commitment to or achievement in sport.

“The Australian Government Sports Awards present an excellent opportunity to recognise and celebrate the tremendous efforts and achievements within the Wannon sporting community,” Mr Tehan said.

Harness racing world-champion reinswoman Kerryn Manning was guest speaker at the sports awards.

Winners included – National Volunteer Awards: Environment award, Ararat Landcare Group, Harold Thomas, Ararat. Australian Government Sports Awards: Individual achievement, under-18 female, Ebony Burton, Ararat, Ella Mcloughlin, Ararat, open female, Alice Culling, Ararat; Community contribution by an individual, Megan Shea, Ararat, Patricia Ruthven, Armstrong.