From dedicated volunteers, remarkable sportspeople and passionate artists, to innovative business leaders and humble quiet achievers — the extraordinary accomplishments of our local citizens were publicly acknowledged last Friday at a special Community Recognition Presentation event held in the historic Lucknow School Hall.

Local Member, Phil Donato, hosted the inaugural event and presented the awards recognising the amazing efforts of both individuals and organisations in making a difference around the Orange electorate.

“It never ceases to amaze me, as I continue to discover individuals and organisations across the Orange electorate, doing unique and extraordinary things,” Mr Donato said.

“Recognising people from our community, is one of the most rewarding things about my job as the elected representative for Orange — celebrating their remarkable work and efforts.”

Mr Donato presented each of the award recipients with a certificate that included a copy of the speech that he delivered in the NSW Parliament in officially recognising each of them.

The individual award recipients included: Max Hazelton, Nicole Vautin, Sarah McIntosh, Janice Harris, Jenny Coleman OAM, Katherine Skinner, Bianca Fuller, Reg Kidd, Sam Rodwell, Haylee Redfern, Kristy Williams, Pat Drabsch, Val Glasheen, Pauline Nicholson and Lynette Pengilly of Parkes Tennis Centre, Robbie Mortimer, Kelly Rimmer, and Dr David Howe.

Organisations and events recognised included: the Country Women’s Association, Cumnock Show Society, Orange Running Festival, Volcanic Mountain Challenge, Orange Tongan Community, Ronald McDonald House, C2G, Stronger Together, Banjo Paterson Festival, Gnoo Blas Classic Club, Orange Symphony Orchestra, and Emus Rugby Club.

“There are many people among us who go under the radar, humbly serving the community, or who are quietly achieving,” Mr Donato continued.

“These award recipients are people who’ve volunteered decades of their lives to community activities and charitable causes; dedicated sportspersons and artists who are reaching the pinnacles of their fields, clever and innovative business people making life better for others, dedicated professionals who’re advancing in their vocational craft, and there are kind and generous people – good Samaritans.

“Most of these people don’t seek accolades or public recognition, they’re motivated people who possess attributes such as team and community spirit, care for fellow citizens and community, dedication and passion for their vocation or interest.

“This day is about them – they’re what makes our country community so special,” Mr Donato concluded.