THREE western Victoria residents were honoured at the 2015 National Volunteer Awards and Australian Government Sports Awards.
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The outstanding efforts of Ararat's Amani Abbass and John Curnow, and Lake Bolac's Nicholas McIntyre were celebrated at an awards ceremony in Dunkeld last Friday.
"These awards present a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the tremendous efforts of volunteers and sporting achievements within the Wannon community," Member for Wannon Dan Tehan said.
Nick was named Young Volunteer for his involvement with the fire brigade since 2013. He was part of strike teams that battled the Black Ranges (2014) and Moyston (2015) fires.
Nick also volunteers for the Wickliffe/Lake Bolac Football Netball Club as an umpire, trainer, junior coach and player.
At Lake Bolac College he has been involved with programs for the primary level students, whilst maintaining his involvement with many of the sporting activities.
Nick is also involved with tree planting for Landcare, Clean-up Australia day and flood recovery works
"At this time of the year, most year 12 students are thinking about 'schoolies', however Nick is participating in the 2015 Rotary International Cambodia Humanitarian Tour," Mr Tehan said.
"I congratulate Nick on his commitment to his community and wish him well on his upcoming trip to Cambodia."
Ararat's Amani Abbass was also hailed a Young Volunteer for her contribution to Santa's Place.
At just 13 years of age Amani is a huge part of the very successful organisation that gives the Ararat community the opportunity to meet Santa, whilst raising valuable funds for Save the Children.
Amani is often seen around Ararat selling raffle tickets and at Christmas time she is the friendly elf helping out in the charity store. She also lends her voice to Easter celebrations at the RSL.
"I congratulate Amani for being a young leader in the Ararat community and giving her time to help others," Mr Tehan said.
Among those acknowledged for their Long Term Commitment to Community Service was Ararat's John Curnow. Mr Curnow was recognised for taking on responsibility and sole administration of the Ararat Emergency Relief Committee on a volunteer basis.
"I note that there is funding set aside for John's work, however he defers these funds to benefit those most in need," Mr Tehan said.
"He provides food, emergency relief and support programs to people in need.
"He strives to meet the immediate needs of families and individuals so they can receive adequate daily nutrition.
"Not only does he deliver food but he interacts socially with the community which helps to fundamentally improve the lives of people experiencing hardship.
"Often John's volunteering places him at great personal risk and is a significant impost on his time, however his desire to help fellow community members far outweighs these challenges.
"As a community we greatly appreciate the efforts of John - congratulations."
As host of the event Mr Tehan was joined by guest speaker Doug Craig. Doug and the team at Dunkeld Adventure are well known for the unique course they map that makes up the very successful Serra Terror.