Publication: ph05102011

Hard work, commitment and selfless service are key ingredients of volunteers within our community. They are qualities found in Eve-Anne Beattie, now in her mid-80s, who received a Hutt City Civic Award for community service and social welfare.

Nominated by the Petone Workingmen’s Club, this Justice of the Peace and Patron of the Petone Bowling Club has been involved in a number of community organisations, among them Te Omanga Hospice, Red Cross, Salvation Army, St John’s Ambulance, and women’s section of the RSA.

I was very humbled, and proud, at the Hutt City Community Awards as the citations were read aloud telling a story of service and achievement by people, young and old, who are making a contribution without expectation of reward.

Eastbourne resident Alan Webb was another to be honoured for his work in the community along with Prabhi Ravi while the supreme community award was deservedly won by the Pomare Community House. 

We are fortunate to have so many dedicated and community-minded people who have contributed their time and energy to voluntary services for the benefit of residents and organisations in our city. 

Volunteers provide the momentum and willing hands to carry out the tasks that build on our reputation as a caring city.

The awards also demonstrated to me the cultural diversity of our city and the qualities of selfless service and generosity that are demonstrated daily by volunteers from all walks of life.

The achievements of our young people were also notable, with leadership, diligence and responsibility a common theme among the award recipients.

We have a responsibility is to ensure there is a robust infrastructure to support their efforts and that we continue to attract industry and development to grow into the future.

Our volunteers are valuable members of our community and, for the most part, their work goes unseen and unheralded. This is my opportunity to thank you all.

Till next time.

Ray Wallace

Mayor Lower Hutt

Remember you can contact my office on 570 6846, email me 

at ray.wallace@huttcity.govt.nz or 

follow me on Facebook.