Held in Wagga last week, Jerilderie was well represented among the nominees with Jerilderie Monash Committee, Jerilderie CWA, and Jerilderie Jethai Aboriginal Corporation all represented.
Also in the running from the local community was Vanessa Kydd, who was nominated for the NSW Volunteer of the Year for her tireless work with the Finley Playgroup.
While the award went to Pat Zandona from the Griffith Trauma Teddies Knitter’s Group, Vanessa said the experience of being involved in the process was “incredibly inspiring”.
“To be nominated alone was a huge surprise. And the people who did win were hugely inspiring.”
Vanessa is one of the coordinators representing Finley Playgroup, a local initiative that brings together families for connection and support.
“At playgroup, it’s not all about socialising for the kids but for the parents as well,” she said.
“It’s a space where parents can find community and friendship.”
The awards ceremony offered Vanessa a rare break from her daily routine.
“It was nice to get off the dairy farm for the day,” she joked.
Vanessa also used the platform to highlight the need for greater youth involvement in community service.
“Statistically, there’s not enough young people volunteering,” she said.
“I’m hoping some local organisations do a recruiting drive, to better entice young people to volunteer.”
She believes events like the Volunteer of the Year Awards are vital for showcasing the strength and spirit of regional communities.
“It was good to showcase what Finley and district has to offer,” she said.
“There’s so much happening here, and it’s driven by people who care.”
17°C