Every community has its quiet achievers. These are the people who volunteer their time, support their neighbours, and make a real difference without seeking recognition. This page is dedicated to celebrating some of these local legends and the outstanding contributions they make to our community.
I would like to acknowledge the selfless dedication with which Michelle Deaves has served the Wyee Rural Fire Brigade for the past decade. This milestone was officially recognised at the recent 2026 NSW RFS Central Coast Volunteer Appreciation Day and Medal Presentation, where she was presented with the Long Service Medal.…
Few people can claim 40 years of continuous volunteer service to their community, which is why it was particularly special to see Cherie Bateup recognised at the recent 2026 NSW RFS Central Coast Volunteer Appreciation Day and Medal Presentation.…
Few people can say they have dedicated 35 years to serving their local community, which is why it was a privilege to see Matthew Naylor recognised at the 2026 NSW RFS Central Coast Volunteer Appreciation Day and Medal Presentation, where he was awarded the National Medal 2nd Clasp in recognition of his service with Wyee and Wyee Point Brigades dating…
For 25 years, Dane Pickering has been a steady presence in the NSW Rural Fire Service, serving his community with dedication and a willingness to step forward when it matters most.…
More than 30 years of volunteer service is an extraordinary achievement, and it was wonderful to see David Bennett recognised at the recent 2026 NSW RFS Central Coast Volunteer Appreciation Day and Medal Presentation.…
Nathan Cerulli has been a valued member of Wyee Point Rural Fire Service Brigade since joining as a junior in 2009 and was recently awarded the National Medal for 15 years of diligent service at the 2026 NSW RFS Central Coast Volunteer Appreciation Day and Medal Presentation held in Doyalson in May 2026.…
Lake Macquarie is home to some truly generous business owners, and I acknowledge Sam and Hayat Zoghbi from Simply Pharmacy Toronto who continually give back to our community. I recently had the pleasure of joining Sam and Hayat outside the pharmacy building for the official opening of the 'Lake and Land' Mural.…
I recognise Lake Macquarie photojournalist Carla Edwards for bringing her powerful exhibition HERStory: Remembering Australia's Military Women to the Fountain Court, NSW Parliament House. I was proud to launch the display in April, and to see these portraits and recorded stories take their place where they belong—at the heart of our public record.…
Relatively few people ever trek to Everest Base Camp, let alone do it twice in rapid succession. I'm proud to recognise Lake Macquarie mum Katrina Croquett, co-founder of Women Embrace Adventure, who recently completed back-to-back Everest Base Camp journeys in Nepal.…
I wish the wonderful Lynne Howard, from Peter Pan Preschool in Wangi Wangi, a very happy and well-deserved retirement. Lynne has led Peter Pan Preschool for 29 years and, under her guidance, it became one of the most respected community-based early learning services in our region.…