Slipper: Fisher Aust Day awards recognise community groups

Hard working community groups are among 42 recipients recognised for their community service, at the Fisher Community Australia Day Awards.

The Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue, of Beerwah, was presented with the “Des Scanlan Memorial Shield” for its work with injured and orphaned birds, and the Kookaburra Village Craft Group, at Caloundra, has been awarded for its fundraising for local charities.

The awards were presented on Australia Day by Member for Fisher Peter Slipper and the Fisher Australia Day Committee, to recognise those who volunteer their own time to make their community a better place to live.

“These dedicated and hard-working residents don’t seek recognition for what they do, but Australia Day gives us an opportunity to say thanks publicly and to let them know that we do recognise their contributions, which are very much appreciated,” Mr Slipper said.

Since 2000, the Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue has provided a 24-hour, 7-day a week rescue and support service for injured birds.

The total number of birds helped over the past 12 years is approaching 3000 – it peaked last year with some 874 birds being assisted and cared for by the volunteers.

Helen Powers, who helps manage the service with her daughters Bridget, Paula and Michelle, said the nomination was unexpected.

“They say everything has a heartbeat, and if we could save every injured animal on the planet, we would. We’d bring them all home with us if we could,” Mrs Powers said.

“We’ve all done it out of the goodness of our hearts and, if we can make a difference, that’s great. It’s nice that people have noticed what we do.”

Meantime, the Kookaburra Village Craft Group, at Caloundra, was recognised with an award for its support of various community charities over some 16 years.

Convenor Merveen Barnes said the nomination was completely unexpected, but wonderful all the same.

“I’m still on cloud nine at the moment. I feel really wonderful that someone has nominated us. I think Connie (Cooper - assistant convenor) and I did a little dance when we heard about it.”

The group charges its members an annual $5 membership fee and also small weekly fees, and host cent sales to sell their various knitted and sewn craft items – including toiletries bags, library bags, and swimming bags - which all helps them make annual financial contributions to the community.

The Kookaburra Village Craft Group has been in operation for some 16 years, having raised and donated some $20,000 to various charities over that time.

The groups were among 42 local voluntary community workers and groups who were recognised for their efforts at the 13th annual Fisher Community Australia Day Awards.

“These dedicated and hard-working residents don’t seek recognition for what they do, but Australia Day gives us an opportunity to say thanks publicly and to let them know that we do recognise their contributions, which are very much appreciated,” Mr Slipper said.

“Each year, the Fisher Community Australia Day Awards provide a great opportunity to give public recognition to these individuals and organisations that dedicate themselves to the community,” Mr Slipper said.

Recipients are recognised for their contributions in the areas of community service, industry and commerce, the arts, sport and recreation, and for their work with seniors’ groups, sporting clubs, youth organisations and the like.

Nomination forms for 2013 are available from Mr Slipper’s office.

26 January 2012
Slipper: Fisher Aust Day awards recognise community groups

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Publish Date: 27 Jan 12

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