Three selfless locals were recognised by mayor Ron Campbell at a National Volunteer Week celebration at the council chambers on Friday morning.

Merle Wooldridge, Peter Carrett and Patricia Hadley were nominated for the Narrabri Shire National Volunteer Week Award.

Ms Wooldridge, from Pilliga, has volunteered her time to fundraise for her community through collecting aluminium cans, raking up cotton from the roadside to take to the gins and taking on the role of president and then vice president of the Pilliga Community Centre for a number of years.

Mr Carrett, a retired long-standing principal from Wee Waa Public School and the founder of the town’s community band, spends a lot of his time entertaining residents at the Weeronga Aged Care Facility with his musical talents, singing and reciting poetry.

Mrs Hadley has juggled numerous positions such as president, secretary and treasurer of volunteer organisations including Rotary, RSL sub-branch, Hospital Kiosk, Inner Wheel, Rocky Creek Fire Brigade, Friends of The Crossing Theatre and the Narrabri Parkinson’s Support Group, all while holding down a high-pressure and demanding job.

Mr Campbell said picking just one winner from the “high calibre” of nominees was impossible.

“Council found that all three nominees were deserving of the award, so we’ve decided to acknowledge every one of you today,” he said.

“Each person contributes greatly to the community in their own unique way.”

“And volunteers are an integral part of communities across Australia, particularly in country areas like the Narrabri Shire, so I thank you all for the work you do.”

All of the nominees were awarded with a certificate and gift pack for their volunteer efforts in the local community, especially over the past 18 months.

“2020 was an unforgettable year,” Mr Campbell said.

“Even through droughts, floods, fires and a global pandemic, our local volunteers continued to offer help to those who needed it.”

The theme of this year’s week was “recognise, reconnect, reimagine”.

“Recognise, celebrate and thank our volunteers for the vital role they play in our community,” Mr Campbell said.

“Reconnect to what is important by giving our time to help others and ourselves.”

“Reimagine how we can better support volunteers and the communities they help.”

Mr Campbell also acknowledged that there are a number of volunteers across the Narrabri Shire, many of whom haven’t yet received formal recognition, but extends his thanks to the various locals offering their support.

“We’re very fortunate to have so many volunteers in our community.”

After the award ceremony, attendees were treated to a morning tea by council.

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