State Member for Wallsend, Ms Sonia Hornery MP, yesterday presented local residents with NSW Government Community Service Awards, for their outstanding contributions to the Wallsend electorate.
Ms Hornery presented the awards to Ms Joanna Bailey and the Newcastle Hunters group for their contribution to the improvement of the quality of life of members of the community.
Both recipients were nominated for their outstanding contribution to the local community during the COVID-19 crisis during 2020.
Joanna received her award for the assistance she provided to the local community during the lockdown phase in early 2020. Joanna helped out a number of local elderly residents who were unable to get out and do the simple things during the lockdown by assisting with shopping and paying bills, and doing regular welfare checks. All while raising her 5 children, working and studying at Newcastle University.
The Newcastle Hunters are a local sporting team who put together more than 50 grocery kits to support people who were struggling during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Club representative, Juby Jacobs, contacted Ms Hornery’s office and arranged for ongoing deliveries of grocery kits to the office and members of the community who were struggling after losing their jobs during the lockdown. The club also raised $5,000 for bushfire relief.
“Throughout this pandemic, some in our community have gone above and beyond to help those in need, or those that just needed a helping hand to get food and pay bills during long periods of isolation,” said Ms Hornery.
“The NSW Government Community Service Award recognises those who lead, volunteer and contribute to their local communities and Joanna and the Newcastle Hunters are the prime example of this.
“The generosity and support from Joanne and the Newcastle Hunters helped many individuals and families during the COVID-19 lockdown and they are thoroughly deserving of this prestigious award.
“Thank you to these community heroes for going above and beyond,” Ms Hornery said.