BARBARA Woodham and Virginia Grey from Mungindi, St Philomena’s Catholic School in Moree and Moree Plains Shire Council were recognised in State parliament by Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan.
Barbara and Virginia were recognised for their efforts raising funds to help Years 5 and 6 students from St Joseph’s Primary School attend an excursion to Sydney later this year.
“We’re both honoured to be recognised in this way. The fashion parade was a great success and really showed what small communities like Mungindi can achieve,” Barbara said.
Mr Moylan congratulated Bugs and Virginia for their initiative and can-do attitude organising a fashion parade and accompanying activities.
“Fashion wear was supplied by Virginia’s of Mungindi and other activities on the day included a chocolate wheel, raffle, lucky door prize and a luncheon, which was provided by Temple and Tom Hutt, of the Jolly Swagman Hotel,” Mr Moylan said.
“Such was the local community backing, the Mungindi Quick Shear also threw in their support of the worthy cause.
“I commend all involved in the fundraising, including Barbara and Virginia’s large band of volunteers, those providing gifts and donations, the Jolly Swagman for providing the venue and to the people of Mungindi and district, for their wonderful generosity and community spirit,” Mr Moylan said.
Mr Moylan recognised the achievements of St Philomena’s Catholic School of Moree, for enabling their students to attend the NSW Indigenous Veterans Commemoration Service held in Sydney, as part of Reconciliation Week.
“This important annual event serves to bring together Australians, to remember and honour the service and sacrifice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans,” Mr Moylan said.
“I congratulate St Philomena’s Principal Simon Fleming and staff, for preparing and securing a grant to assist with the travel and accommodation, and to parent helpers who accompanied the group throughout this trip. Special thanks also to Catholic Schools NSW, the Association of Independent Schools and the NSW Office of Veteran Affairs, whose collaboration and support greatly assisted in the student’s participation coming to fruition,” he said.
The achievements of Moree Plains Shire Council on winning the Excellence Award in the Borderless Communities category at the NSW Local Government 2024 Excellence Awards was also recognised by Mr Moylan.
“The award recognises councils who have established collaborative agreements with neighbouring jurisdictions to implement practical actions to improve social, economic and wellbeing outcomes for their community,” Mr Moylan said.
He congratulated Mayor Mark Johnson, Deputy Mayor Susannah Pearse and fellow councillors Mekayla Cochrane, Mike Montgomery, Murray Hartin, Kelly James, Lisa Orchin, Brooke Sauer, Greg Smith, along with general manager Kelvin Tytherleigh and council staff.
“Collectively, these representatives have fostered positive relationships, enhanced communication and co-operation, as well as worked together to find innovative solutions to common issues with cross-border counterparts, in particular the Balonne Shire Council.
Mr Moyal also recognised several community groups, individuals, and organisations for their contributions to the community, including Inverell Girl Guides, Guyra Polocrosse, Glen Innes Arts Council, Lloyd Hornsby, Jayde Hames, Armidale Athletics Club, Jane Sharman OAM, Professor Yihong Du and Bill and Jacqui Mitchell.
