Text and image courtesy of www.cluthadc.govt.nz
Our local volunteers were recognised and celebrated at the 2024 Clutha District Community Service Awards, held at the Te Pou Ō Mata-Au War Memorial & Community Centre on Thursday, 11 July.
Generous with their time and talents, the individuals and community groups that have been working tirelessly in our communities bringing life to many incredible endeavours throughout the Clutha District, were formally recognised for the great volunteer work they have been doing.
Clutha District Council Mayor Bryan Cadogan said the event was an evening to celebrate our local champions.
“These people are out there taking great strides, helping achieve the ambitions and goals of their communities. We are just so appreciative of what they have achieved and continue to achieve for Clutha, and it is an honour to be presenting these awards and recognising their efforts”, Mayor Cadogan said.
The Clutha Gold Cycle Trail Extension Committee was the Supreme Winner of the group award, for the successful completion of the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail extension from Lawrence to Waihola, which was officially opened in August 2023.
The extension project involved years of dedication and collaboration with various communities between Waihola and Lawrence. The group’s outstanding efforts and ongoing maintenance of the trail has brought a new vibrancy to our district, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike and contributing to Clutha’s economic, social and cultural growth.
Other groups presented with awards in the various categories included:
Milton Elder Care Trust – for Health and Wellbeing (combined winner)
Special Olympics South Otago Trust – for Health and Wellbeing (combined winner)
Papatowai Forest Heritage Trust – for Heritage and Environment
Lawrence Domain Volunteer Group – for Recreation and Leisure
Balclutha Primary School Whanau & School Committee – for Educational and Child/Youth Development
Winning recipients in each of the Community Group categories received $1,000 and the Supreme Winner received $2,000. Combined winners’ prizes were shared.
The Youth Spirit Award was presented to two exemplary Year 13 students, Anna Harrex of the Lawrence Area School, and Ollie Shore of South Otago High School, as combined winners for their outstanding individual contributions to their schools and communities. The prize of $750 was shared between the Youth Spirit Award recipients.
Individual awards were presented to Rachel and Ash Prasad, and Kevin Sutton, in recognition of their outstanding community service to the district.
Read more about each deserving award recipient below.
Supreme Winner: Clutha Gold Cycle Trail Extension Committee
Individual award winners (alphabetical order)
Rachel and Ash Prasad
Rachel and Ash Prasad are the dynamic leaders of Youth United, a group dedicated to supporting and uplifting the youth in their community. Rachel, in addition to her full-time role as a Corrections Officer, serves as the music director for their church, overseeing both music and administrative functions. Over the past year and a half, Rachel has shifted her focus more towards the youth group, while still organising community events such as the annual Clothes Swaps in the spring. During Christmas, Rachel and Ash lead a community outreach initiative, distributing 50 food hampers to those in need and providing financial support to individuals who lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their collaborative spirit is evident as they work with other organizations and churches to host various community events.
Ash, who is the church pastor and also works part-time as a Corrections Officer, brings his engineering and business expertise to the community by helping people with home repairs and assisting them in entering the housing market. His passion for seeing people thrive is reflected in his hands-on approach and dedication to community service. Rachel also enriched the youth program by taking the group sailing at Lake Waihola, providing unique experiences for the youth. Together, Rachel and Ash Prasad have made significant contributions to their community, demonstrating unwavering commitment and a genuine desire to improve the lives of those around them. Their tireless efforts and compassionate leadership make them highly deserving of recognition through this individual community award.
Kevin Sutton
Kevin Sutton has made significant contributions to the Kaitangata community through his extensive service with the Kaitangata Fire Brigade. His journey began in 1986, during the 75th anniversary of the brigade, where he was inducted as a new recruit. By 2011, during the centennial celebrations, Kevin was recognised as a Life Member and awarded the Gold Star, Long Service, and Good Conduct medals. His leadership roles include serving as Deputy Fire Officer from 1999 to 2006 and as Chief Fire Officer from 2006 until his retirement in 2024. Despite stepping down, Kevin continues to be an active member of the brigade.
Under his leadership, the brigade has expanded its responsibilities to include first response to various emergencies such as fires, medical events, traffic incidents, floods, and civil defence situations since 2017. Kevin has been instrumental in training new firefighters and enhancing their skills, contributing to the safety and well-being of the community. He also takes on roles such as fire safety education, event speaking, and setting up displays.
Kevin's involvement extends beyond emergency response. He has been part of the Competition Running Team since 1996, contributing to the team's success in regional and national competitions. As a coach, he has led the team to significant achievements, including international competitions such as the World Fire Fighter Games.
In addition to his fire service, Kevin has been an active member of the Crescent Rugby Club, attending over 200 games as a medic. His dedication to the club involves attending training sessions and providing medical support during games.
Kevin also contributes to the Antique Fire Brigade Society in Balclutha, where he advises on old fire engines and maintains a personal collection of fire memorabilia. His professional life includes working for Fire Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) at the Balclutha Fire Station, ensuring he remains available for callouts.
Kevin Sutton's unwavering commitment and diverse contributions to the Kaitangata community make him a deserving recipient of the Clutha Community Service Award in the Individual category.
Youth Spirit Award
Anna Harrex - combined winner
Anna is an exemplary young leader whose contributions and achievements make her a deserving recipient of the Youth Spirit Award. Anna aspires to achieve a Level 3 endorsement and the prestigious title of Dux, with plans to apply for a Bachelor of Teaching, Primary. Her passion for education is matched by her dedication to extracurricular activities and community involvement.
Anna is deeply involved in sports, passionately playing and coaching netball for Year 5/6 students and coaching swimming locally. She balances her interests with work at Night & Day and active participation in a youth programme. As Deputy Head Girl at Lawrence Area School, Anna is a role model and ambassador within the community, known for her approachable and kind nature. Her leadership style is inspiring, and she has formed great friendships and demonstrated resilience by attending the Leadership Programme at Akaroa and completing a three-week Outward-Bound course, which pushed her boundaries both physically and mentally.
Anna's commitment to community service is evident in her recent swim covering the distance of the Cook Strait, raising money for cancer. This remarkable feat was supported by her school and community, showcasing her ability to unite and inspire those around her. She has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, receiving awards in 2021, 2022, and 2023, and has been recognized as the senior swimming and athletics champion for three consecutive years. Additionally, she serves as a volunteer coach for the Lawrence Netball Club and La Way youth group leader, further highlighting her dedication to youth development.
Anna’s highly motivated approach to all aspects of her life, combined with her leadership, academic excellence, and community spirit, make her an inspiration to both students and the wider community. Her aspirations to become a primary teacher at an area school reflect her commitment to making a lasting positive impact on future generations.
Oliver (Ollie) Shore – combined winner
Ollie Shore, at 17 years of age, exemplifies the true spirit of community service and dedication. Aspiring to gain university entrance and become a paramedic, Ollie has already made significant strides toward his goals. He joined St John to complete his first responder certificate and aims to pursue a diploma to become an ENT, laying a strong foundation for his future.
As a volunteer Fireman, Ollie is not only a team member but also one of the trainers for the crash rescue team, and he is actively gaining qualifications to become an engine driver. His ambition extends to achieving an EMT paid position in Clutha and Dunedin within the next two years, with a long-term goal of working as a critical paramedic on the Otago Rescue Helicopter.
Ollie's passion for helping others is evident in his commitment to the emergency services. Beyond his medical aspirations, Ollie is a national touch rugby referee, having been awarded Youth Male number one in New Zealand. He referees rugby throughout Otago and has been recognized as the Otago Touch Association Junior Referee of the Year for both 2022/23 and 2023/24.
As the Head Boy at South Otago High School, Ollie maintains an excellent rapport with his peers and has been honoured with the Westpac Cup for Community Contribution, both as a junior in 2022 and a senior in 2023. Additionally, he received the Clutha Licensing Trust’s Official of the Year award for South/West Otago in 2021.
Ollie Shore's unwavering dedication to his community and his drive to achieve his goals make him an exemplary recipient of the Youth Spirit Award. His contributions to emergency services and sports officiating, combined with his leadership at school, showcase a young individual deeply committed to making a positive impact.
Group award winners
Health and Wellbeing: The Milton Elder Care Trust – Combined Winner
The Milton Elder Care Trust has demonstrated exceptional commitment to enhancing the health and wellbeing of our community's elderly population through their dedicated initiatives. Meeting twice a week, their comprehensive programme includes a variety of engaging activities such as picnics, card games, housie, dining outing, and live entertainment featuring singers, which are immensely popular among their clients.
What sets the Milton Elder Care Trust apart is their extraordinary team of volunteers, who generously contribute their time and resources to ensure these activities thrive. Volunteers use their own vehicles to transport clients, coordinate activities, and adapt programmes to suit individual preferences, ensuring inclusivity and enjoyment for all participants.
Beyond mere recreation, the Trust fosters invaluable connections, providing lifelines and nurturing friendships that enrich the lives of elderly community members. Their dedication exemplifies the spirit of community service and makes a profound difference in the lives of those they serve.
Health and Wellbeing: Special Olympics South Otago Trust – Combined Winner
The Special Olympics South Otago Trust is honoured for its unwavering dedication to providing athletes with intellectual disabilities enriching opportunities through sports. By fostering skills, self-confidence, and social interaction, the Trust empowers athletes to thrive through club activities and events.
As one of 43 clubs across New Zealand, the Trust hosts numerous Tier 1 and Tier 2 competitions, enabling athletes to qualify for Regional and National Games. This inclusive approach not only promotes athletic achievement but also strengthens community bonds through the Unified Model of sports, creating a supportive environment where diversity is celebrated.
In the past year, the Trust has demonstrated exceptional resilience amidst challenges, particularly adapting to the impact of Covid-19 on athletes' participation in Special Olympics events. Despite these hurdles, the Trust has continued to hold weekly club practices, supported by dedicated volunteers and coaches.
Highlighting their commitment to excellence, the Trust organised events in indoor bowls and bocce, providing athletes with platforms to showcase their skills, sportsmanship, and teamwork. These events not only nurtured personal growth but also showcased their abilities as professional sportspeople in their chosen disciplines.
Through these efforts, the Special Olympics South Otago Trust has not only enriched the lives of its athletes but has also strengthened the fabric of our community, embodying the true spirit of sportsmanship and inclusivity, with their outstanding contribution to promoting health, wellbeing, and community cohesion.
Heritage and Environment: Papatowai Forest Heritage Trust
The Papatowai Forest Heritage Trust (PFHT) is a long-established and active group of trustees and supporters dedicated to promoting and encouraging the protection and preservation of the indigenous flora and fauna of the Catlins. Founded on the belief that like-minded people can achieve great things together, PFHT has grown into a multifaceted organisation maintaining significant blocks of land and caring for public areas associated with various conservation projects.
In the last 12 months, PFHT's most significant achievement has been the Queen Elizabeth II covenanting of 1.5 hectares of forest bordering the iconic rata fringed Tahakopa Estuary, now called ‘The Findlater Covenant.’ This accomplishment, secured through countless volunteer hours, ensures the land is protected in perpetuity, preserving its pristine natural environment for local, national, and international visitors.
PFHT volunteers have also been active in other important conservation efforts. They care for the Chaslands Tussock Restoration Reserve, maintain predator traps at Mahaka Reserve and seabird nesting areas, and support local projects such as the Matai Rail Trail, Catlins Lakeside viewing area, and the Historic Chaslands Cemetery. The volunteers are also responsible for weed control and track maintenance at Rocky Knoll.
The trust owns and maintains three publicly accessible QEII covenanted open spaces: Shanks’s Bush, Mabel’s Bush, and The Findlater Covenant. These areas contribute significantly to the natural environment of the Papatowai area, offering locals and visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy the region's beauty and learn about its history.
PFHT’s work extends beyond land maintenance to community involvement, providing hands-on and financial support for various local projects. Their dedication to preserving the natural and historical heritage of the Catlins, coupled with their active community engagement, makes the Papatowai Forest Heritage Trust a deserving recipient of the Heritage and Environment Award.
Recreation and Leisure: Lawrence Domain Volunteer Group
The Lawrence Domain Volunteer Group is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the Lawrence Domain, ensuring it remains a safe, pleasant environment for everyone while preserving its rich history.
Established over a decade ago by Stevie Robertson and Ali McCraw, the group focuses on clearing weeds, maintaining tracks, and protecting the Domain's historical elements, such as the trees planted on Arbor Day 1892 and the bulbs planted by the Tuapeka Horticultural Society in the late 1800s. Over the past 12 months, the group has undertaken several significant projects, including constructing a stone retaining wall and picnic table overlooking Weatherston Creek, uncovering and clearing the original Lawrence township water supply dam, and extending a new track offering scenic views over the golf course and Weatherstons. Monthly working bees involve tasks such as clearing tracks, removing invasive weeds, trimming trees, and general maintenance to ensure the Domain remains accessible and enjoyable for locals and visitors alike.
The group's core volunteers, Stevie Robertson, Ali McCraw, Mark Robbie, and Roger Anderson, have dedicated countless hours to these projects. Their efforts have transformed the Domain from a weed-covered, unsafe area with fallen trees and broken branches into a beautiful, well-maintained space for walking and picnicking. The work of the Lawrence Domain Volunteer Group not only provides a welcoming environment for new residents to get involved and meet people but also offers the community and visitors safe, clear tracks and the opportunity to appreciate the historic water races. The impact of their dedication is evident in the enjoyment experienced by all who visit this treasured area.
Educational and Youth: Balclutha Primary School Whanau & School Committee
The Balclutha Primary School Whānau & School Committeeis honoured for its outstanding dedication to supporting the holistic development and well-being of students, teachers, and families within our local community.
At the core of their mission is the pivotal role they play in bridging the gap between students, parents/caregivers, and the school, ensuring open communication and fostering strong relationships. Their initiatives include organizing a diverse range of activities and special events that complement the academic curriculum and cultivate a vibrant sense of community within Balclutha Primary School.
Fundraising is a cornerstone of their efforts, enabling the Committee to support teaching and learning initiatives, provide essential resources for students and families, and enhance the overall educational experience. Through innovative events such as the Ethel & Bethel Bingo Night, BPS Food Wrap Fundraiser, and environmentally conscious initiatives like the "Reduce, Reuse and Recycle" campaign, they have raised significant funds to benefit the school community.
Beyond fundraising, the Committee actively engages in community-building activities such as BBQs, raffle drives, and collaborative projects like the Spud Dig Night, which fosters inclusive environments and strengthens community bonds.
Their commitment extends to practical support as well, with members actively involved in school improvement projects and initiatives like the construction of the "GaGa Ball" surround, demonstrating their dedication to enhancing school facilities and student experiences. Moreover, the Committee ensures equitable access to educational resources by subsidising school camps, graduation ceremonies, and providing essential services such as stationery supplies and water safety classes for all students at Balclutha Primary School.
In recognition of their tireless efforts and profound impact on the local community, the Balclutha Primary School Whānau & School Committee is celebrated for exemplifying the spirit of community service and educational excellence.
SUPREME WINNER
Clutha Gold Cycle Trail Extension Committee
Congratulations to the overall Supreme Winner, the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail Extension Committee, for their exceptional dedication and achievement in extending the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail from Lawrence to Waihola. This extension, achieved in August 2023, is the result of years of dedication and collaboration with various communities, relevant landowners, and stakeholders, significantly benefiting all districts along the trail.
The committee's work involved overcoming challenges such as adverse weather conditions and weed maintenance, demonstrating their in-depth knowledge and commitment to achieving a positive outcome. Despite a limited budget, this small group of only 6-8 individuals managed to accomplish a phenomenal feat. Their successful hosting and organising of the public opening event required extensive collaboration and coordination with government agencies, MPs, local Government officials, landowners, and contractors, all of whom played a role in the trail's development.
The positive impact of the trail extension is evident in the emergence of new businesses and the increased activity of existing ones, supporting, and supplying riders and benefiting the communities of Lawrence, Waitahuna, Milton, and Waihola. Witnessing locals using the trails and seeing the project come to fruition has been immensely satisfying for the committee. Their dedication to the establishment and ongoing maintenance of the trail exemplifies the spirit of community service and promotes health and wellbeing across the region, making this group deserving of this award.
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