Awards for local service reinstated

2017 civic award recipient Ivy Grant, of Balclutha, is pleased Clutha District Council is...
2017 civic award recipient Ivy Grant, of Balclutha, is pleased Clutha District Council is reinstating the awards this winter, after a two-year hiatus. PHOTO: RICHARD DAVISON
A former award recipient is getting behind her district's reinstated community awards this winter.

During Trustpower's move to amalgamate its Clutha and Dunedin community awards early last year, the "individual" category was dropped, leaving only volunteer community groups in a position to benefit.

At a Clutha District Council meeting in August, the council decided to reinstate its own version of the community awards for individuals, nominations for which are now open, until May 24.

One of the last cohort to receive an individual award, in 2017, was long-standing Balclutha volunteer Ivy Grant.

Mrs Grant said she was supportive of the council's decision to reinstate the awards.

"I received my award for work with Special Olympics indoor bowls, which took me by surprise at the time. But it was nice to be acknowledged, even if there are many, many worthy volunteers doing amazing things locally."

The awards highlighted the value to the community of volunteering generally, she believed.

"It helps those in the community who otherwise might miss out in some way. I've seen some of my bowlers come on in leaps and bounds in confidence, self-esteem and physical enjoyment over the years, so it can make a real difference."

Mrs Grant highlighted the challenges faced by many clubs nowadays, as membership declined due to the "busyness" of modern life.

"There are a limited number of hours in the day, and young families work very hard these days, so it's understandable, if sad.

"If the awards can help throw light on the value and benefits of volunteering, and perhaps encourage one or two others to step up, that can only be a good thing."

Council chief executive Steve Hill said the awards would highlight those working hard to make a difference in the South Otago community.

A maximum of four individual awards could be presented each year, for "persons who have shown community service above and beyond".

Nominations could be made at council service centres, or through the council website, www.cluthadc.govt.nz.

Awards will be presented at a function in Balclutha, on June 27.

Add a Comment