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Double win for NSW Central Coast


Double win for NSW Central Coast

Author: NRMA MediaDate: 01 November 2010

Dedicated Central Coast volunteers, Colin Lott and Janet Macfarlane have been announced as winners in this year's NRMA Helping People Awards, which recognise the hard work and commitment of volunteers working for charities and not-for-profit organisations across NSW and the ACT.

The annual awards cover four categories; Senior (Age 60+), Environmental (25+), Community (25-59) and Young (16-24).

NRMA Motoring & Services Director Kyle Loades said Wyong resident, Colin Lott won the Community Volunteer award for his work with St John Ambulance Australia (NSW), while Janet Macfarlane from Yarramalong claimed the Senior Volunteer award for the time and energy she has invested in Merry Makers Australia.

"Mr Lott and Mrs Macfarlane are two inspiring people who make a difference and Australian communities need more dedicated champions like these volunteers," Mr Loades said.

Mr Lott volunteers 700 hours a year at St John Ambulance Australia (NSW), as well as juggling two fulltime jobs as a Police Inspector and Emergency Nurse. His role at St John involves managing and administering 1500 hard working volunteers.

Mr Lott was nominated by colleague and friend Garry Huang who said Colin’s dedication and drive inspired him to be a better person. "Colin is by far the most caring and supportive person I know," Mr Huang said.

Mrs Macfarlane gives her time to Merry Makers Australia, an internationally-acclaimed dance group with members ranging from 6 to 65 that is dedicated to brightening the lives of people with an intellectual or physical disability.

Despite recent health challenges, Mrs Macfarlane is determined to continue her passionate work for Merry Makers and recently achieved a long-held dream to take her dance group to Disneyland USA to perform. She was nominated for the NRMA award by friend, Lea Joris.

Ms Joris said Janet has made people in her community aware that people with disabilities have opportunities.

As Community Volunteer winner, Mr Lott will enjoy an East Coast Adventure for two at an NRMA Holiday Park while Mrs Macfarlane will receive a six-night tour of Darwin and Kakadu courtesy of NRMA Travel, including two nights on the Ghan train from Darwin to Adelaide.

The four NRMA Helping People Award winners will be presented with their trophies and prizes next month at the NRMA's Head Office in Wynyard.

Contact: Kimberly Rigby 0439 133 215

Hi-res pictures available on request.

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