A number of locals have received special awards from NSW Member for Murray Helen Dalton for their work in the community.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Mrs Dalton made trips to Finley and Jerilderie last week to present a number of Community Recognition Statement awards to people and groups from across the Southern Riverina region.
The Community Recognition Statements congratulate or acknowledge the achievements of people or groups in the community which recognise charity work, retirement or honours and awards.
The Jerilderie presentation included recognition for retired firefighter John Crittenden and the organising committee of the Jerilderie Fun Fair.
In the Finley ceremony, CRS awards were presented to the Finley High School show team, Pate Agricultural Pty Ltd, Finley SHow Society and Tocumwal-based wilflife warrior Fynn Molinaro.
Mrs Dalton initially introduces each recipient to NSW Parliament in short sittings throughout the year.
She then visits communities to highlight the good work further and to present certificates to those honoured.
Mrs Dalton’s speeches to Parliament for each of the recipients are as follows:
John Crittenden:
John Crittenden is a devoted member of the Jerilderie Fire and Rescue who recently retired after an impressive 49 years of service.
Since joining in 1976, John has been a vital part of the community, contributing to countless emergency responses and showing solid leadership as the brigade's captain for the last decade.
John's career highlights include responding to major events such as the Black Saturday fires and the 2020/2021 bushfires, demonstrating bravery and dedication.
His commitment to the community extended beyond the fire station, as he fostered a sense of unity and support among his fellow firefighters.
John has always been there, ready to help, even when it meant answering calls in the middle of the night.
As John steps down, we acknowledge his immense contributions and the positive impact he has had on the lives of many.
I would once again like to thank John Crittenden for his unwavering service and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.
His legacy will be remembered, and he leaves behind big shoes to fill.
Jerilderie Fun Fair:
I would like to commend the organisers of the 2024 Jerilderie Fun Fair for their extraordinary efforts in creating an inclusive and vibrant community event.
This annual fair, held at Monash Park Oval in Jerilderie, was designed to bridge the rural-metro cultural gap and offered a wide array of activities suitable for all ages.
The fair included live music, rides, a market, and even an outdoor cinema, providing a day full of entertainment bringing the community together.
The success of the fair can only be attributed to the hardworking organising committee, who, despite the challenges that come with an event of this scale, managed to deliver an unforgettable experience for over 850 attendees.
The dedication and enthusiasm of the Jerilderie Fun Fair organisers have not only benefited the community of Jerilderie but have also set a high standard for future events across the region.
I would again like to commend and congratulate the organisers of this event, and I eagerly look forward to the 2025 Jerilderie Fun Fair.
Finley High School show team:
I would like to recognise and acknowledge the remarkable achievements of Finley High School at the 2024 Holbrook Sheep and Wool Fair.
The school’s show team, led by dedicated teachers Gary Webb and Robyn O’Leary, along with Principal Jeff Ward, excelled in numerous categories.
Notable accolades include Charlotte Rafferty winning the Supreme Exhibit and Champion Sheep of the Show, and Ryan Bauer securing first place in Novice Junior Judging of Meat Sheep.
The team also received awards for Best Maintained Team and Interbreed Champion Group of Three.
Congratulations again to all for their outstanding dedication and hard work. I look forward to hearing about your continued success.
Pate Agricultural Pty Ltd:
I commend Pate Agricultural Pty Ltd for their groundbreaking achievement in maize crop production.
Under the watchful eyes of Nathan Pate and Daniel Phelan, and with expert advice from James Murray of AGnVET Cobram, they achieved a record-breaking yield of 23.27 tonnes per hectare on their Tocumwal property.
This yield not only surpasses the previous national record but also showcases sustainable and innovative agricultural practices.
The crop, a Pioneer Hybrid P0937, was optimally nurtured with a pivoting lateral irrigation system, which efficiently utilized 6.5 megalitres of water per hectare.
Their approach exemplifies the potential of precision agriculture in enhancing productivity and resource use efficiency.
Congratulations to the team at Pate Agricultural for your dedication and for setting a new benchmark in the agriculture sector. Your hard work and innovative methods serve as an inspiration to all.
Fynn Molinaro:
It's truly inspiring to hear about Fynn Molinaro's remarkable efforts in conservation at such a young age. His dedication to raising funds for the Dutch Thunder Wildlife Rescue's Wildlife Signage campaign demonstrates a deep understanding of the importance of protecting our native animals and their habitats.
By collecting cans and raising $150 for this vital cause, Fynn has not only made a tangible impact on wildlife protection but has also set a shining example for others, showing that individuals of any age can make a difference through their actions.
The Wildlife Signage campaign's goal of installing signage in roadkill hotspots is crucial for preventing further harm to our native wildlife, and Fynn's contribution is undoubtedly a significant step towards achieving that goal.
Furthermore, Fynn's continued support for Dutch Thunder Wildlife Rescue, especially considering its importance in safeguarding one of Victoria's largest Koala populations, underscores his unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation.
Congratulations, Fynn, on your commendable work and the positive example you set for others.
Finley Show Society:
I would like to commend the organisers, participants, and supporters of the 106th Finley Show, held on a beautiful spring Sunday.
The day was filled with wonderful displays and entertainment, with visitors arriving continuously throughout the event despite some windy conditions.
A highlight of the show was Lachie Cosser, the Outback Stockman, who wowed the crowd with his impressive stockman skills.
Special recognition goes to Closeup Poll Dorset Stud, the recipient of the prestigious Wynne Hawkins Memorial 'Champion of Champions’ award for the third consecutive year, and to Kitty Lawton, who took home the Joyce Yeo Memorial Pavilion Award for Most Outstanding Exhibit.
The dedication of the Finley Show Society, volunteers, and generous sponsors ensured a day of family fun that showcased the best of the Finley community. Congratulations again to all involved for their tremendous efforts.
Southern Riverina News generic byline.