‘Unwavering in her support’
Nhill’s Christine Dufty is Hindmarsh shire’s citizen of the year.
The honour recognises Mrs Dufty’s long contribution to healthcare, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic response, along with her volunteer service to the community.
She has worked for West Wimmera Health Services, WWHS, for 32 years.
“During the pandemic, Christine has been unwavering in her support of staff, and has been the go-to person for advice on management of infection prevention, vaccination, isolation, visitor management and a variety of other issues and challenges that have arisen,” her citation read.
“She co-ordinated the vaccinations of the elderly and vulnerable, staff, the community, and local businesses.
“Christine has gone above and beyond when caring for the community.
“She has travelled to businesses to vaccinate staff, visited the homes of vulnerable people, cared for residents in WWHS and other aged-care facilities, and played a key role in operations of the COVID-19 testing station at the Nhill Truck and Trailer Exchange, community vaccination clinics and vaccination clinics for children.”
Mrs Dufty is a 20-year member of Nhill Rotary Club and was its first female member.
She is also a long-time member of Nhill and District Sporting Club as a hockey player, Nhill Hockey Club volunteer and Wimmera Hockey Association life member.
She was awarded ‘employee of the year’ at the ACE Radio Wimmera Business Awards last year.
Meanwhile, Rainbow’s Ayla Roberts is young citizen of the year.
The Rainbow P-12 College captain organised a White Ribbon Awareness Day, including information and activities
for students, last year – going on to host a community lunch and raising $3000 for White Ribbon Australia and West Wimmera White Ribbon.
Ayla also cares for her mother, who has mobility issues.
She is open about her mental health and is passionate about promoting an inclusive community.
The Peter Taylor Memorial Barefoot Tournament and Night Jump, at Dimboola in February, was deemed community event of the year.
The event was named in memory of waterskiing legend, Peter Taylor, who lost his fight to cancer in 2017.
Barefoot water skiers of all ages showed their skills and the tournament was broadcast to people unable to attend. It attracted 2500 attendees from across Australia and raised more than $4500, which was donated to Wimmera Against Cancer in Kids, also known as WACK, and Wimmera Mental Health.
Dimboola Boat and Water Ski Club organised the event, with support from Dimboola Rowing Club, Dimboola Netball and Football Club and Dimboola Town Committee.