VICTORIA

Community Achievement Awards for Victoria

 

2022 Winners 

 2022 Award Winners

 

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award

Flaim Systems Pty Ltd, Warun Ponds was founded in 2014 by Dr James Mullins at Deakin University and commercialised in 2019. FLAIM developed the world’s first multi-sensory immersive learning solution for firefighters to safely and cost effectively replicate the stress and uncertainty of real-world emergency situations. Their two solutions, FLAIM Trainer and FLAIM Extinguisher, are delivered in 28 languages in over 35 countries. FLAIM employs 29 employees.'

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award - Flaim Systems Pty Ltd

 

 

Regional Development Victoria Leadership and Innovation Award

Greg Cole, Warragul helped bring Eli Innovation back from the brink and redesigned and manufactured a Milk Meter prototype at his own cost. Eli Innovation is the only Australian manufacturer of Automatic Cup Removers and Milk Meters. Greg also runs Lely Centre Gippsland, where he saw the potential for milking robots to future-proof local farms. He is a member of the Gippsland Community Leadership Program.

Regional Development Victoria Leadership and Innovation Award - Greg Cole

 

 

 

Awards Australia Community Group Award

Speed Lions Club consists of 24 volunteer members who are committed to raising much-needed funds for the community. Their signature event, The Mallee Machinery Field Days, is the largest agricultural and agribusiness trade show run by farmers for farmers. Now on its 42nd anniversary, the two-day event attracts more than 350 exhibitors across Australia. It has provided numerous fundraising opportunities for the local community.

 Awards Australia Community Group Award - Speed Lions Club

 

Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award

Home Instead Geelong is a specialist provider of relationship-based in-home care for ageing adults and people living with progressive health conditions established in June 2018. Their caregivers provide care 24/7 and empower their clients to choose the care, time and location they want. Home Instead ensures to find a suitably matched caregiver and personally introduce them at the start of the first service.

Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award - Home Instead Geelong

 

 

Southside Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Community Hero Award

Gabriel Gervasoni, Ballarat advocates for young people with disability. Gabriel is a legally blind young person who is actively involved in the Ballarat Youth Council, Ballarat Youth Ambassador Program and Central Highlands Youth Advisory Board. He is a PTech ambassador who encourages young people to become involved in STEM. He is currently involved in a sustainability project aiming to educate young people about recycling.

Southside Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Community Hero Award - Gabriel Gervasoni

 

Nectre Regional Service Award

Youthrive Victoria, Creswick is a charity that operates with a purpose of strengthening rural communities and supporting young people to be leaders. Established in 2008, Youthrive offers vocational and university scholarships, transition and career mentoring, and leadership development Dream Seeds workshops. In 2021, it launched the Rural Youth Network. It has provided over $2 million in scholarships for 131 young rural Victorians to date.

Nectre Regional Service Award - Youthrive Victoria

2021 Winners

Awards Australia Community Group Award

 

BlazeAid of Kilmore East values the strength of community. BlazeAid was established in 2009 when founders Kevin and Rhonda Butler requested assistance from the community after the Black Saturday bushfires ravaged three kilometres of fencing. With 25 volunteers coming to help, what would have taken months to repair took only a week. Paying the favour forward, BlazeAid has since responded to natural disasters ever since. During the 2019/2020 mega fires, BlazeAid set up 45 camps around the country to help rebuild. Over the last twelve months, they successfully trialled a project where they taught and supplied farmers with native trees and grasses to regenerate their lands.

 

Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award

Bunyip Hotel Cavendish is a small country pub that has physically existed for 200 years. They have changed the look and feel of the pub to attract people from all over Victoria and Australia to enjoy the restaurant and explore the region. They take great pride in serving the five local men who have been drinking Friday beers for 50 years. They require no drink on arrival and provide complimentary snacks weekly. They hire local kids for the kitchen, use local ingredients and support local businesses. Owners pass on their knowledge of customer service through hands-on training of bar managers and small group sessions.

 

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award

Daylesford Cider Company is committed to innovation. Daylesford Cider is a small-scale cider producer owned by Jon and Clare Mackie who purchased the business in 2015. Jon is self-taught and has refined their cider styles whilst also developing new innovative styles to distinguish their brand. Clare runs the on-site cellar door, aiming to establish the business within the local and regional tourism. They also hold events and live music, functions and weddings, and offer Cider Makers Tours during the summer. They employ 12 staff from the local area.

 

Prime Super Employer Excellence in Aged Care Award

Sale Gardens Care Community works hard to improve the wellbeing of their team. Sale Gardens Care Community is a residential facility offering aged care, allied health, permanent, respite, dementia and palliative care. They have 95 team members who enjoy a flexible working environment. They encourage training and development and offer scholarships to develop professionally. Some of their team members have participated in the Opal HealthCare Emerging Leaders Program. They give opportunities to work in Care Communities around Australia. They have recently partnered with a local disability support provider and have employed a team member with a disability. They have a solid work health safety record.

 

Southside Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Community Hero Award

Saskia Adams of Gladysdale is passionate about animal welfare. Saskia founded Forever Friends Animal Rescue (FFAR) in 2011. She left her job as Senior Editor at Penguin Books after realising that the number of homeless animals in need far exceeded her expectations. With the help of over 1,000 volunteers, FFAR has rescued, rehabilitated and rehomed approximately 10,000 animals on death row. Saskia previously worked for Friends of the Earth and Victorian Dog Rescue. She co-founded Companion Animal Reform Australia and was a founding member of Oscar’s Law and Pound Reform Alliance Australia. In 2019, Saskia was nominated for a Pride of Australia medal.

 

Regional Development Victoria Leadership and Innovation Award

 

Strathbogie Local of Euroa is innovative and inspired. Strathbogie Local is a volunteer start-up created to support local food producers and consumers in response to Farmers’ Market closure throughout Covid lockdowns. Utilising the Open Food Network online platform, they offer a ‘click and collect’ food hub that allows the customers to collect their weekly orders without leaving their vehicle. Strathbogie Local has taken on the marketing, purchasing, sorting and distribution, allowing local growers to focus on producing fresh quality products. They have given local growers and producers security while introducing a wealth of choice to the community and generating new enthusiasm for healthy living.

 

GOTAFE Community Education Award

 

Zoe Support Australia of Mildura advocates for the education and employment of young mothers. Zoe Support Australia is a not-for-profit, community-based organisation founded with a goal of re-engaging young mothers aged 13 to 25 in education and employment through intensive case management, removing barriers to education like transport and childcare, providing study hubs, and offering a number of pre-accredited educational and social programs. In 2019, they began the ‘Contemporary Cakes and Small Business’ weekly pre-accredited Learn Local course, designed to develop basic baking skills and improve employment outcomes. Zoe Support mothers are largely disadvantaged and vulnerable, all facing the daily stigma of being a teen mother.

 

 

2020 Winners

 

2020 Bank of Melbourne Regional Achiever of the Year - Mat Bowtell

 

Mat Bowtell of Cowes is an engineer and philanthropist. Using his redundancy pay-out in 2017, he established Free 3D Hands, a charity that provides open-source 3D printed hands and assistive devices for people around the world for free. Mat works full time in designing and making assistive devices and even makes his design publicly available at no cost so assistive devices can be manufactured by anyone with a 3D printer. During the pandemic, Mat worked closely with the infectious control team at Bass Coast Health. He was able to make one face shield every 8 minutes and donated thousands of face shields to local healthcare and essential services.

 

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award

 

Jackal Fencing of Long Gully is a steel and aluminium fencing manufacturer that promotes quality Australian-made products and contributes to the future of the Australian manufacturing industry. Founded in 2004, they sell 70% of their products into the Greater Metropolitan Areas of Australia through resellers and distributors. Jackal Fencing employs skilled tradesmen and creates practical and innovative fencing solutions. Their 23 local staff enjoy free on-site flu shots and team building activities and staff are encouraged to volunteer in the community. In 2018 and 2019, Jackal Fencing won the Bendigo Business Excellence Awards, Excellence in Manufacturing and Excellence in Manufacturing and Innovation categories.

 

Regional Development Victoria Leadership & Innovation Award

 

Mat Bowtell of Cowes is an engineer and philanthropist. Using his redundancy pay-out in 2017, he established Free 3D Hands, a charity that provides open-source 3D printed hands and assistive devices for people around the world for free. Mat works full time in designing and making assistive devices and even makes his design publicly available at no cost so assistive devices can be manufactured by anyone with a 3D printer. During the pandemic, Mat worked closely with the infectious control team at Bass Coast Health. He was able to make one face shield every 8 minutes and donated thousands of face shields to local healthcare and essential services.

 

GOTAFE Community Education Award

 

Ganbina of Shepparton is an Aboriginal-led, not-for-profit organisation established in 1997. They supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth aged 6 to 25 years to develop their full individual potential through meaningful engagement in education, training and employment. In 2005, Ganbina created the JOBS4U2 program portfolio, which centres on case management, mentoring and skills-building to enable a successful transition from school to long-term employment. Other programs include Primary School Scholarships, General Education, Accelerated Learning, Driver Training, Youth Leadership, Vocational Training, Tertiary Education and Employment. Ganbina, meaning ‘to rise up’, supports participants to develop a true sense of self and connection to their cultural heritage.

 

Prime Super Agricultural Innovation Award

 

Soilkee of Hallora developed Soilkee Renovator, a revolutionary Australian technology that reverses soil depletion, sequesters soil carbon, enhances soil fertility and increases productivity. It was tested under a one-year trial across three farms under a Commercialisation Australia ‘Proof of Concept Grant’. The Soilkee Renovator increases dry matter yields by 25% to 100% and crude protein from 13% to 45%, effectively reducing bought-in feed costs. They developed the Soilkee System, which enables water infiltration and retention and nutrient availability through rapid topsoil building, offering a regenerative approach for resilient, profitable and productive Australian agriculture. Soilkee has earned Australian Carbon Credits Units from the Clean Energy Regulator.

 

Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award

 

Alex Lemmon of Delacombe is genuinely enthusiastic about the service he provides. He is the manager and head of customer relations at Ballarat Car Sales, an independent car dealership. Alex has an integral role in the setup and running of the dealership, which uniquely operates and delivers a customer experience that exceeds expectations. As first point of contact, he approaches every customer interaction with care and integrity. He follows a Customer Service Policy that focuses on a human-centred approach to excellence with the goal of keeping customers engaged and gaining repeat business and referrals. Alex has received numerous “Dealer Of The Year” awards during his career.

 

GOTAFE Community Group Award

 

A Better Life For Foster Kids of Dutson works to improve physical, educational and psycho-social outcomes for children in foster care and kinship care. Heather Baird, who also grew up in foster care, made her dream of helping other children come true when she founded A Better Life For Foster Kids in 2014. ABLFFK provides Crisis Cases for children entering out-of-home-care in Victoria, containing all the clothing and essential items needed in a child’s first week in care, along with handmade blankets and toys. ABLFFK has two paid employees and four volunteer Crisis Case packers. They source 75% of items needed through in-kind donations from professional agencies, local businesses and community organisations.

 

Prime Super Employer Excellence in Aged Care Award

 

Strzelecki House a Japara Home of Mirboo North is 60-bed aging in place facility that is in the process of extensive renovations, increasing to a 74-bed facility. They employ 64 staff and believe that “Our Staff are Gold.” The facility offers very flexible working hours and has a childcare centre within walking distance. All staff are local and close by towns. They undergo mandatory training on-site and try to offer two sessions a day to ensure they can cover all staff. They offer an Employee Assist Program where staff can call a number and have a discussion about things that worry them in their personal lives or business.

 

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Community Resilience Award

 

Leo op den Brouw of Mallacoota advocates for local solutions to local problems. On New Year’s Eve 2019, a bushfire devastated Mallacoota, and over 100 homes were lost. Leo has been central in ensuring collaborative local solutions are at the heart of the community’s recovery. As State Emergency Services Controller, Leo motivates his team of first responders to go above and beyond. Before, during and after the bushfire, he worked tirelessly to coordinate the community effort and responses. As part of the Emergency Management Team after the bushfire, he coordinated meetings with police, fire, national parks, ambulance and the defence force, and made sure local needs were prioritised.

 

Awards Australia Community Hero Award

 

John Anderson of Shepparton works with heart and soul. He is a member of the Rotary Club and the President of the Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry. John worked on the parking reference sub-committee to bring about $8.5m funding to the Shepparton Central Business District, slated to commence in 2021. He also works with Council on various initiatives. His ability to consult and negotiate without offending or upsetting the business community and Council executives helps John and the general community achieve the desired outcome. He is a kind, respectful and humble leader who is well-loved in the community.

 

2019 Winners

 

The 2019 Winners with Karl Lijnders and Andrew Allen from PRIME7 at Flemington Racecourse

 

2019 Bank of Melbourne Regional Achiever of the Year

 

Goulburn Murray Valley Regional Fruit Fly Project is protecting the region’s horticultural industry by effectively managing the spread of the Queensland Fruit Fly before it can cause significant economic harm. Established in 2017, the GMV Fruit Fly Project is comprised of representatives from Agriculture Victoria, Goulburn Murray Water, many local councils and business and the community. The organisation monitors fruit fly population through a regional trapping grid, identifies fruit fly “hot spots” and holds education workshops for community, industry and government based on an “ownership of the issue” approach. It has also removed more than 5,500 fruit fly host trees and plants from private and public land.

 

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award

 

Braille Sign Supplies of Torquay produces Braille tactile signs that comply with Australian Standards. It began when co-founder Travis Ashford, who was then running a signage business, noticed that the Braille signs available were either non-compliant with Australian Standards or too expensive. Recognising a gap in the market, Travis researched before beginning the labour-intensive process of making compliant Braille signs through trial and error, while his wife and co-founder, Leza, took charge of marketing and packing. Today, the company has its own Braille system called BrailleForm, a large factory and eight employees. They are also a Finalist in the 2019 Geelong Business Excellence Awards.

 

Ms Danielle Green Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria; Parliamentary Secretary for Sport, representing The Hon Jaclyn Symes, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Resources presented Braille Sign Supplies with the Business Achievement Award.

 

Regional Development Victoria Leadership and Innovation Award

 

Tanisha Lovett of Horsham is a dedicated mentor to Indigenous youth. An outstanding speaker, she actively mentors in Indigenous youth camps such as Hands Together; Buldau Yiooghen, Big Dreams Leadership Camp, and Indigicate Camp. Tanisha is a project facilitator for the Kookas after-school club, which focuses on teaching Indigenous kids about Aboriginal culture. She is part of Celebrating Sistas, an Indigenous women’s group that offers a safe space, and the Art Program and After School Art program. Tanisha helped organise an exhibition during the 2019 NAIDOC week. She has finished her traineeship in Goolum and is currently in charge of delivering the Nyupun program.

 

Ms Danielle Green Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria; Parliamentary Secretary for Sport, representing The Hon Jaclyn Symes, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Resources presented Tanisha Lovett with the Leadership and Innovation Award

 

Prime Super Employer Excellence in Aged Care Award

 

Jacaranda Village of Red Cliffs seeks to provide a life worth living to both its residents and staff. The not-for-profit organisation Red Cliffs & Community Aged Care Services Inc. owns and operates the 75-bed Jacaranda Village. The Village employs 137 staff members, the majority of whom are registered nurses, enrolled nurses and personal care workers. They offer competitive salaries, benefits and perks to attract and retain the best employees. The organisation has terminated external contracts and hired internal staff to increase team and improve skills on dietetics, speech pathology and physiotherapy. In 2018, Jacaranda Village paid over $54,000 in training and professional development for its staff.

 

Billie Atanasova, National Sales Manager, Prime Super presented Jacaranda Village with the Employer Excellence in Aged Care Award

 

Parks Victoria Environmental Sustainability Award

 

Four Wheel Drive Victoria adopts the mantra of “driving in a sustainable environment.” FWDV is an incorporated association formed in 1975 by four wheel drive clubs in Victoria with the interest of protecting the land and communities through which they travelled. In the last four years, they have conducted five major “Clean up the Bush” projects and removed 400 cubic metres of rubbish from forests. Other initiatives include track clearing, Camp Host, hut restoration, and educating the public about “driving in a sustainable environment” at four wheel drive shows. In 2018, they recorded over 15,000 volunteer hours or $500,000 worth of in-kind hours.

 

Simon Talbot, Chief Operating Officer, Parks Victoria presented Four Wheel Drive Victoria with the Environmental Sustainability Award

 

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Diversity and Inclusion Award

 

Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services is supporting multicultural communities and celebrating diversity. Established in 1999, LCMS is a not-for-profit organisation that empowers people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to participate fully in Australian society. It supports newly arrived migrants and refugees to build a successful life in the region through community programs on employment, education, capacity building and community development. LCMS organises arts and events to support social cohesion and cross cultural competency, including the Zinda Festival, an annual multicultural event attended by over 6,000 people. In 2019, over 15 cultural groups participated in the festival celebrating diversity through music, dance and food.

 

Lee Miezis, Deputy Secretary - Forest, Fire and Regions, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning presented Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services with the Diversity and Inclusion Award

 

Prime Super Agricultural Innovation Award

 

Goulburn Murray Valley Regional Fruit Fly Project is protecting the region’s horticultural industry by effectively managing the spread of the Queensland Fruit Fly before it can cause significant economic harm. Established in 2017, the GMV Fruit Fly Project is comprised of representatives from Agriculture Victoria, Goulburn Murray Water, many local councils and business and the community. The organisation monitors fruit fly population through a regional trapping grid, identifies fruit fly “hot spots” and holds education workshops for community, industry and government based on an “ownership of the issue” approach. It has also removed more than 5,500 fruit fly host trees and plants from private and public land.

 

George Frangeskakis, Regional Manager – Eastern Victoria, Prime Super presented Goulburn Murray Valley Regional Fruit Fly Project with the Agricultural Innovation Award

 

Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award

 

The Doggie Den of Bairnsdale has incredible passion for dogs and cats. Founded by Warren and Kathryn Sinclair, they offer pet products in Bairnsdale and East Gippsland with a holistic and natural focus. The team spends quality time with customers to know their pet’s lifestyle and to offer tailored diet, treats, toys and accessories. An in-store butcher produces preservative and additive-free meat meals and even homemade treats. They also have an accredited dog trainer offering weekly classes. The Doggie Den has left many customers satisfied, achieving 100% customer satisfaction received from 700 responses and retaining a consistent 5-star Facebook rating for two years.

 

Jonathan Hines, Regional Wholesale Manager – South, Ricoh Australia presented The Doggie Den of Bairnsdale with the Customer Service Award

 

Life Activities Clubs Victoria Senior Achievement Award

 

Jean Nelson of Geelong has spent more than 20 years volunteering for those with life limiting illnesses. She has been an active volunteer and a life member at Anam Cara House Geelong, a Community Hospice that provides day and overnight palliative respite and end of life care. Jean is in her eighties and volunteers Monday and Friday nights, providing palliative respite for people that would otherwise be admitted to hospital or residential aged care. Jean is actively involved in care episodes and fund raising. She is determined to improve the lives and deaths of people with life limiting illnesses.

 

Kath Frowen, President, Life Activities Clubs Victoria presented Jean Nelson with the Senior Achievement Award

 

Awards Australia Community Group Award

 

Golden Square Pool, Inc. successfully saved a 101-year-old pool and turned it into a community hub. Golden Square Pool is a group of 55 locals who transformed a once dilapidated, under-used facility, to an inclusive, vibrant and empowering hub for Golden Square and Bendigo residents. They launched a campaign in 2012 to save the pool from closure by extending its lease. Since then, it has provided accessible health and fitness opportunities to 90,000 patrons. Volunteers introduce innovative programs like live events and wellbeing programs. One initiative is the SwimSafe Bendigo program where free swimming lessons are given, especially for local refugees, migrants and multicultural adults.

 

Geoff Griffin, Managing Director, Awards Australia presented Golden Square Pool, Inc. with the Community Group Award

 

2018 Winners

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award

Remax Pty Ltd of Nathalia is a family business commencing in 1999. The company designs and manufactures custom Commercial and Industrial doors and aims to be the Partner of choice for Premium Industrial Doorway Solutions. They employ 32 staff; a huge benefit to their rural community. The business has grown to support a national and international client base. Recently the business built a new 1800sqm production plant in the northern industrial estate of the town.

 

Regional Development Victoria Leadership & Innovation Award 

Dr Skye Kinder of Bendigo is a tireless health advocate for marginalised communities, a prolific writer and international speaker. She is a respected voice in the rural health debate and an inspiration to her peers and patients alike. Skye founded the Medical Students Association’s Rural Health Committee, creating discussion opportunities for rural medical students in policies affecting both their communities and careers. Skye was named the 2017 Victoria’s Junior Doctor of the Year.

 

 

Prime Super Employer Excellence in Aged Care Award

Goodwin Village of Donald is a not for profit community owned aged care facility. They provide residential care, retirement living and community care to people in their own homes. Goodwin Village, wherever possible, obtains its products and services from locals including the butcher, baker, building maintenance services and contractors for major building works. It provides employment for 44 staff with a full-time equivalent of 22 staff. Goodwin Village provides placement hours for local VCAL students.

 

South West TAFE & Deakin University South West Regional Achiever Award

MSRF Dream Seeds Program of Ocean Grove is a group of over eighty alumni in the Macpherson Smith Rural Foundation ‘Young Rural Leaders Program’. They are committed to building capacity in young rural Victorians focusing on themes including aspiration and resilience. They have provided leadership workshops to over 450 Year 6 students and continue to grow their network of partner schools. Recently the Dream Seeds Program was awarded a grant to fund the ‘Mallee Trip July 2018’ project.

 

Parks Victoria Environmental Sustainability Award

The Upper Campaspe Landcare Network brings together 17 Landcare and Friends groups in Central Victoria, covering 140,000 hectares.

They work together to protect biodiversity, create connectivity across the landscape, and promote sustainable land and water use and ecological health. Their goal is to achieve positive environmental and social outcomes for our area. They conduct Citizen Science projects to find and document special species such as Powerful Owls, Phascogales and Greater Gliders, then implement measures to protect their habitat.

 

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Diversity and Inclusion Award

Kia-Ora Piggery of Yarrawalla is a large-scale piggery that has diversified its workforce by employing skilled Filipino workers. They continue to expand their business, now employing 24 Filipinos, accounting for 50% of their total workforce. Each year, Kia-Ora Piggery supports the local Fiesta, a celebration showcasing Filipino and Australian cultures. The Pyramid Hill community has been incredibly supportive, developing financial support programs to help bring families across to Australia, and assist with English learning programs.

 

Prime Super Agricultural Innovation Award 

Simply Rose Petals of Murraydale was founded by Jan Slater and her daughter Sarah Rose Bloom. They now manage the first rose petal farm in the southern hemisphere. Producing a world-first range of freeze dried edible flowers, Simply Rose Petals has won national and international awards. The delicate petals are hand-picked, frozen and dried, retaining their colour and shape. Simply Rose Petals was named Australia’s Number One in Special Services at the Australian Bridal Industry Awards.

 

Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award 

Mansfield Armchair Cinemas is an award-winning community-based, not-for-profit cinema supporting the local community of Mansfield. Employing six or more students as trainees at any one time, MAC collaborates with the Secondary College and TAFE to deliver an innovative traineeship program, combining Certificate III in Media Studies and on-the-job training. Mansfield Armchair Cinema supports the local Freeza Youth Group, holds special movie nights for nursing homes and support local charities by holding fundraising movie nights.

 

 

Awards Australia Community Group of the Year Award 

The Wimmera Southern Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network is an independent, not for profit association, covering 28,000 square kilometres of Western Victoria. They support disadvantaged young people to remain engaged in education or transition into employment. They have 14 voluntary Committee of Management members and over 115 members with the equivalent of 5.4 paid staff. The network has brokered 55 active partnerships with community organisations and local businesses, with staff travelling extensively to plan and implement these partnerships.

 

 

Henry Carus & Associates and Life Activities Clubs Victoria Senior Achievement Award

Leopold Men’s Shed began the project based at Moolap Primary School two years ago. The men volunteer to work with Grade 5/6 students to assist them to develop and complete woodwork projects with only recycled materials. One of the primary aims of the project is to support the mental and physical health of older men by forming close community connections. The children have benefitted by learning to design, create and problem solve.

 

 

 

2017 Winners

 

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award

Bakery on Broadway at Wycheproof was established by four couples wanting to bring the town back to life. A year later, the popular bakery has seen near empty streets turn into a busy town, with parking often at a premium. They employ thirteen locals, provide catering and have gained a reputation for great coffee. Funds raised from selling coffee grounds to gardeners purchased a community car.

 

Regional Development Victoria Leadership & Innovation Award

Paul Chapman of Kangaroo Flat is Chairman of the Australian Turntable Company, supplying turntables for move buildings, vehicles and works of art internationally. He is Chair of the volunteer Committee for the Bendigo Inventor Awards, connecting inventors with investors to produce solutions related to emergency and disaster management. Paul developed the first Festival of Failure to showcase the importance of embracing failure as part of the innovation process.

Ryan Represented Paul Chapman

 

Prime Super Employer Excellence in Aged Care Award

Rural Northwest Health in Warracknabeal commenced 125 years ago. Their 90-bed facility, including 15 beds in the award-winning memory support unit, employs 270 people. They provide staff with transition to retirement plans, purchased leave options, generous maternity and paternity leave and have just introduced family violence leave. The facility has a 95% rating from staff who view them as an employer of choice

 

Prime Super Agricultural Innovation Award

Glendemar – Multi Purpose Merinos of Marnoo and their 6th generation managers, Ben and Cheryl Duxson have introduced innovative and productivity measures into their Merino breeding operation. Australian Sheep Breeding Values, DNA testing and eID data collection systems are creating leading edge industry management practices. Their focus is not only on productivity, but also on cost saving and animal welfare. They are preferred suppliers of high quality products with great integrity.

 

South West TAFE & Deakin University South West Regional Achiever Award

Robyn Ledin of Warrnambool is a member of the Warrnambool East Primary School leadership team. She implemented and secured funding for a Nurturing Room for selected Prep to Year 2 students who had experienced trauma and violence. Based on Robyn’s research of the United Kingdom programs, the Nurturing Room provides a safe, non-judgemental haven for students to transition into the school day with a positive attitude and full stomach!

 

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Diversity and Inclusion Award

Tania Bardsley of Newington is a volunteer coordinator with the Ballarat City Football Club and has worked hard to connect and engage with the culturally and linguistically diverse community. Africana Ballarat was her concept; to highlight and value the contribution of the African community to the club. The Africana Ballarat event cut-across art, sport, food and music ensuring broad participation regardless of age, ethnicity, culture, religion or socio-economic challenges.

 

Parks Victoria Environmental Sustainability Award

Mirranatwa - Panyyabyr Landcare Group at Karabeal has since 2008, run Victoria's largest community fox baiting project The project covers 30,000Ha of private land in Victoria Valley, adjoining the Grampians National Park. The project is a win for biodiversity, protecting nationally threatened wildlife, enhancing community collaboration and is an economic win. The increased lambing rates support fine wool and prime lamb production for Victoria Valley farmers.

 

Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award

Queenscliffe Visitor Information Centre has a team of 38 skilled volunteers providing quality information, accommodation referral, ticketing and guided heritage tours. Last financial year, they volunteered 5,281 hours, handled 76,655 visitor enquiries and welcomed 40,000 visitors who spent an estimated $5 million. The volunteers enhance the visitor experience with their enthusiasm and local knowledge and are core to the success of the Queenscliffe’s tourism economy.

 

WorkSafe Victoria Regional Safety Award

Anglesea Fire Education Program is part of the CFA Survive & Thrive Program. The award winning program is led by a community partnership consisting of representatives from the local CFA Fire Brigade, the primary school, local fire experts and others. The program empowers and encourages students to take on the role of educators and lead bushfire education and preparedness activities in their school and community.

 

Life Activities Clubs Victoria and Henry Carus & Associates Senior Achievement Award

Dr Tess Brady of Clunes has led the organisation Creative Clunes, transforming the rural town of Clunes from decline to a prosperous vibrant community. Volunteer run for nine years, Creative Clunes created an annual book festival and opened the first community bookshop. Now the town boasts six independently run bookshops and the annual festival attracts 20,000 guests. They have monthly author talks and the town is a centre for cultural tourism.

 

2016 Winners

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award

PETstock of Wendouree, is a 100% Australian owned company, with 125 stores across Australia and New Zealand. Originally purchased as Ballarat Produce and Merchandise, the family owned business franchised in 2002. 2015 revenue exceeded $250 million and expectations are $500 million by late 2018. PETstock’s charity foundation, PETstock Assist, in partnership with PetRescue, supports almost 1,000 Australian animal rescue groups. PETstock staff regularly donate to the foundation. PETstock coordinated a $1 million dog and cat food donation, distributing 58 tonnes to 240 animal rescue groups.

Regional Development Victoria Leadership & Innovation Award
Koroit & District Primary School, developed a six week parent program to build parent understanding and confidence in the social, emotional, intellectual and physical development of pre-schoolers. Led by teacher, Michelle, the program included story-telling, healthy snacks and the sharing of success stories from parents. Teachers have noticed improved learning and an increased rate of literacy since commencement of the program. The Beyond the Bell, Moyne Action Group program is now involved, and has been extended across the Moyne area.

Prime Super Employer Excellence in Aged Care Award
Shepparton Retirement Villages Inc, founded in 1968, is community owned and cares for more than 600 residents in three locations. Expanding into Home Care and Community Support, they are in the final stages of design for a new 120 bed, $34million state of the art aged care facility with a specialised dementia wing. The 420 staff are offered training programs, staff flexibility and opportunities for advancement. The Villages have great community involvement with 190 volunteers delivering activities and services to residents.

Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award
Avoca Hotel, is a three time recipient of the Golden Plate Award for Best Regional Hotel Dining, and two time winner of their State Award for Best Hotel. Located in the Pyrenees wine region, owners, Ian and Alison are passionate about sourcing local ingredients and supporting locals with employment and training. Avoca Hotel received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for the past four years, and has consistently rated as their Number 1 restaurant in the region. The Avoca is also a major sponsor of local sporting clubs.

South West TAFE & Deakin University South West Regional Achiever Award
Tim Baker of Warrnambool, is a specialist emergency medicine doctor at Warrnambool and Portland Hospitals, and lecturer at Deakin University. Recognising the need to improve emergency medical care in the South West, Tim initiated the Centre for Rural Emergency Medicine. He has successfully built a regional emergency workforce of doctors, medical students and smaller emergency care facilities to the state-wide emergency care system. Tim’s has been invited by State and National Government committees to be the advocate for the emergency medical needs of rural communities.

Prime Super Community Group of the Year Award
Heyfield & District Historical Society, was founded in 2002, and the “Save our Post Office – Make it our New Museum” project was launched in January this year. The museum will showcase the diverse history of the Heyfield District. Since beginning the project, committee members have volunteered more than 655 hours of work, and have raised $145,000 enabling them to purchase the museum. The Museum will strengthen pride within the town and its heritage, and allow for community involvement on many levels.

MOA Benchmarking Community Service in Aged Care Award
Tracey Hooke of Kilmore, is the Lifestyle Coordinator at Caladenia Nursing Home. She is passionate about her role, often working beyond her rostered hours, volunteering in the evenings and on weekends. As part of the wellbeing and lifestyle program Tracey developed the “Sensory Me” program, recognising and responding to special memories of the residents. “Tracey’s Social Dining In” allows residents to socialise with friends and enjoy a special meal together. Other popular initiatives are Wedding Days, an Ice Creamery store and a sensory garden.

Parks Victoria Environmental Sustainability Award
Winters Flat Primary School of Castlemaine, have harnessed the power of student voice, community and environmental respect to drive their ‘Students Leading Change’ WFPS Sustainability Program. The school has dramatically reduced its carbon footprint and embedded sustainable practices throughout the curriculum. Initiatives include working with local elders on the creation of the Bush Tucker Garden and the Nude Food Policy encouraging families to buy fresh food. The school has gained 5-star accreditation through reducing waste, energy and water consumption and increased biodiversity.

Federation Training Gippsland Regional Achiever Award
Aislin Jones of Lakes Entrance, commenced shooting clay targets when she was 12. She was the youngest Australian to shoot a perfect round of 100/100 in domestic skeet and at 15, won the Open Women's National Championship. Aislin speaks at Schools and Rotary Groups motivating her audiences about success, work ethic and achieving goals. She trains more than 8 hours and travels 10 hours each week. She was named the youngest ever member of the Australian Olympic Shooting Team for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Life Activities Clubs Victoria and Henry Carus & Associates Senior Achievement Award
Love to Sew Ladies of Shepparton, was established 15 years ago and consists of a group of volunteers who share a love of sewing, knitting and craft. Most members live in the Independent Living Units, and they meet regularly offering a welcoming environment and ongoing friendships. The ladies have donated clothing to orphans in Romania and assist Shepparton Villages with their fundraising activities. They make exquisite hand knitted woollen socks and have hand sewn 120 bed quilts to raise funds for their new facility.

 

 

2015 Winners of the Regional Achievement and Community Awards

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award
AME Systems Of Ararat, was founded in 1977 and is a proud Australian, privately owned business, employing 230 people with an annual turnover in excess of $35 million. They are the leading Australian owned manufacturer of quality electrical wiring and vehicle harness, electrical assembly boards and control boxes and power distribution systems for heavy transport. AME Systems value their staff and systems improvement; committing last year to $200k in staff training. The recipient of multiple regional awards, AME Systems is also an inductee of the Victorian Manufacturing ‘Hall of Fame'.

 

Regional Development Victoria Leadership and Innovation Award
Bill Mithen of Geelong, is the “Face” and “Voice” of Give Where You Live’ Media and Publicity Campaign. Since his appointment as CEO of Give Where You Live Foundation in 2011, Bill’s passion and drive have created “game-changing opportunities” in the efforts to address disadvantage in the Geelong region. Bill’s creativity and initiative, planning and execution of fund raising, grant making and community development strategies has resulted in over 100 community volunteers involved in grant assessment panels. $2 million in grants has been given to 57 local service organisations in 2015-16, reaching 20,000 regional people.

 

Prime Super Employer Excellence in Aged Care Award
Ballarat Community Health Of Lucas, was founded by community members 40 years ago to address community health issues. They remain a membership based and driven, not-for-profit organisation working to promote and enhance the health and wellbeing of its community. 140 staff is employed, including GP’s, Allied Health Professionals, Counsellors, Nurses and Health Promotion Officers with outlets in Ballarat, Wendouree, Sebastopol, and Smythesdale. Ballarat Community Health has received many awards, including the Living Longer Living Stronger Award, the Older Worker of the Year and the Community Safety Award.

 

South West TAFE and Deakin University South West Regional Achiever Award
Geraldine Edar of Warrnambool, is the facilitator of the Alternative To Schoolies program. Open to post-VCE and VCAL students from Warrnambool City, Moyne and Corangamite Shires, the program involves small groups participating in humanitarian work in local Philippine villages. Milestones include the building, outfitting and resourcing of a village school library in Indangan and the complete refurbishment of classrooms. Geraldine currently works as a Youth Development Officer with the Moyne Shire, and uses her annual leave to travel to the Philippines with each group, showing her passion and dedication to the program.

 

Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award
The Great Aussie Beer Shed & Heritage Farm Museum in Echuca, was opened by Neil Thomas in 2003 and is a private collection of beer related products and historical Australiana items collected over a 40 year period. Accommodation is available and functions are catered for in The Heritage Function Centre. On show are over 18,000 empty beer cans from around the world, a blacksmiths workshop, shearing shed, milking shed and farm machinery. Children are encourage to be hands on and every customer gets a personalised tour of the complex.

 

Prime Super Community Group of the Year Award
One & All Inclusion Project of Echuca has, since its inception in 2009 fostered an ethos of inclusion for all abilities, breaking down social barriers, building mutual respect and overcoming discriminatory attitudes. Peer Buddy’s mentor, train and participate with a person who has a disability in recreation and community activities; such as last year’s debutant ball where 68 secondary school students partnered a person living with a disability to make their debut. A part-time project officer is supported by many volunteers helping to plan, coach and participate in programs.

 

Parks Victoria Environmental Sustainability Award
City of Greater Geelong’s Greenway Project is an ambitious 5 year community project to revegetate 21km of The Ted Wilson Bike Trail along the Geelong Ring Road. Funding from the Federal Government’s 20 Million Trees Program and significant plant donations from Barwon Water and Marngoneet Prison will source 80,000 trees and 15 hectares of native grasslands. Outcomes will be an expanded network of cycle and walkways, noise and wind abatement from the Ring Road, increased business for local nurseries and storage and sequestration of carbon and air pollution.

 

VACC Regional Safety Award
BSafe Program - Women's Health Goulburn North East of Wangaratta, is a joint initiative with Victoria Police enabling victims of family violence to remain safely in their own homes and communities. The Bsafe device is a personal, discreet alarm system for women who have an Intervention Order on a violent ex-partner, or have left a family violence situation. The Bsafe Program is a risk management and violence prevention strategy, and to date over 300 women and 600 children have lived in a home with a Bsafe device.

 

MOA Benchmarking Community Service in Aged Care Award
Stephen Grigson of Warrnambool, is the Lifestyle and Volunteer Coordinator at Lyndoch Living Inc, managing 19 lifestyle staff and over 170 volunteers. He is a passionate advocate for person-centred care, creating a vibrant home where residents, family members and staff are empowered to make decisions and choices. Leading by example, Stephen introduced his own pet as an innovative way to commence a pet therapy program. Using his IT skills, Stephen assisted in the development of the “Virtual Visiting Program” enabling residents to visit with family and friends using video conferencing and Skype.

 

Federation Training Gippsland Regional Achiever Award
Jessie McEwan of Traralgon, was at the age of 21, selected as Australia's first Young Chef Ambassador at the 2014 World Chefs Forum. She donates her time and talents to charity events such as the Fine Foods Festival and the Young Chef Gala Dinner. Jessie is a speaker for women in the World Association of Chefs Society, a qualified chef, a member of the Australian Culinary Federation and Young Chefs Club Victoria. As a young mentor, Jessie conducts cooking classes at schools and provides inspirational talks to culinary and high school students.

 

 

 

 

2014 Winners of the Regional Achievement and Community Awards

Regional Victoria Living Expo Business Achievement Award
The Creekside Hotel, was re-opened in December 2012 after major renovations, and has seen massive growth ever since. Offering an extensive menu that brings city dining to the country, the Hotel employs 25 people and serves in excess of 1,000 meals each week. Known far and wide as ‘the place to be” for good food, wine and good times with friends and family, it is the only waterfront dining area in the Wimmera. The hotels annual community Creekside Food Fest also brings more than 1,000 people to the area.

Regional Victoria Living Expo Leadership and Innovation Award
New Freedom Bakery, prides itself on an award winning gluten free mix, developed by owner Terry as a result of 17 years of research. In 2010 Terry won the Bendigo Inventors Award for his mix and has since increased production from three tonnes to 82 tonnes. The Bakery showcases gluten free breads, pastries, cakes and slices and gives people with special dietary needs a place to go without fear of gluten contamination. Over the past four years, Terry has made enough gluten free mix to make 582,000 loaves and is keen to continue expansion.

Federation Training & Federation University Gippsland Regional Achiever Award
Alan Stuart of Mount Taylor, has been a member of the Mount Taylor Fire Brigade for 55 years. He has contributed countless hours participating and organising volunteers in recovery work post bushfires and floods across the Gippsland area. In fighting the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009, Alan worked 35 consecutive weekends completing over 1,700 hours of volunteer work at that time. The impact of Alan’s work and his community contribution is both invaluable and immeasurable.

Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award

Ritz on Hotham, has developed a strong focus on customer service after it was revamped and re-opened in 2010 by Amy and David. Now one of Traralgon’s premier dining destinations, the Ritz on Hotham has seen tremendous growth in takings and tips in the past 12 months. This has been achieved by training staff to be friendly and welcoming as well as taking customer feedback onboard. The Ritz on Hotham makes 100% of their food in house and is one of only two Australian Good Food Guide recommended restaurants in the area.

Prime Super Community Group of the Year Award
Community Leadership Loddon Murray, is a not-for-profit association involved in developing and supporting community leaders through a diverse range of projects. Projects include an annual Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program, a graduate program, a SkillsBank and a number of other capacity building projects. Today there are more than 350 graduates across central and northwest Victoria active in community leadership roles including Board Memberships and Local Government Councillors.

Parks Victoria Environmental Sustainability Award
Dunkeld Kindergarten Bush Kinder began in March 2013 and involves taking the children once every fortnight to experience the Grampians National Park. The program gives children the opportunity to enjoy nature and learn from it. The sessions are mostly unstructured and only a camping toilet and toilet tent, first aid kit, wet weather clothing and resource box is taken on the trips. The bush kinder program also teaches the children about biodiversity, protection of the environment and building respect for the land.

Medibank Healthy Participation Award
Swell Mamas is an initiative that promotes healthy living and lifestyle through programs that engage women and families in surfing and beach play. It involves a weekly surfing support program where women and children meet for a social catch up and surf at a local beach on the Bass Coast. Swell Mamas also run short-term programs that target vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in the community. The Swell Mama programs use surfing to build and improve social cohesion, physical activity, self-esteem and positive body image.

South West Tafe & Deakin University South West Regional Achiever Award
Vicki Jellie and Peter's Project was established in 2009 to attain vital lifesaving radiotherapy treatment for cancer patients in the South West. Peter’s Project was named after Vicki’s late husband Peter who lost precious time with his family whilst he was alive by having to travel to Melbourne for cancer treatments. Over the past five years, Vicki and Peter’s Project have managed to achieve their goal of a $30 million state of the art cancer facility for the South West. Now, the Peter’s Project Foundation supports the new facility by providing ongoing scholarships.

VACC Regional Safety Award
John Maher - Carmen's Road Safety, has been presenting the Carmen’s Road Safety story at secondary schools for the past 16 years after losing his daughter Carmen in a road accident at just 18 years of age. Last year alone, John spoke at 72 schools with 16,000 students hearing Carmen’s story. Carmen’s Road Safety story empowers students to understand the importance of taking responsibility on the road. In total, John has spoken to 150,000 secondary and University students

 

2013 Winners 

Regional Victoria Living Expo Business Achievement Award
Beechworth Honey Experience, began in 1993 and has emerged as Australia’s largest independently owned specialist honey packing company. Beechworth Honey Experience is a concept store whichtells a story about nature’s perfect food in an interactive fun way, leaving a lasting connection with visitors. The store sells Australian honeys and other products including an all natural beauty range, 100% Australian beeswax candles, bee themed gifts and books about honey and beekeeping

Regional Victoria Living Expo Leadership and Innovation Award
Rebekah Vass of Mount Pleasant, last yearreceived Gold Leadership and Volunteer Awards from the University of Ballarat. She is currently a senior student ambassador with the Regional Schools Outreach Program. She volunteers countless hours conducting workshops to encourage students to finish year 12 and enter further education. Rebekah is also President of the UniversityEnactus team. She has successfully started her own charity and is taking a group ofUniversity students to rebuild a school in Ghana that was wiped out by storms

Gippstafe and University of Ballarat Regional Achiever Award
Dr Christine Lee of Churchill teaches and researches “Management” in the school of Business and Economics at Monash University Gippsland Campus. She has made over 50 conference presentations, publications and journal articles. She has also successfully achieved research grants to the value of $100,000. Christine utilises her skills and knowledge in various voluntary roles and serves on several committees and boards including as Deputy Chair of the Gippsland Ethnic Communities’ Council

Fantastic Furniture Indigenous Achievement Award
Cassandra Anderson of Churchill will graduate in December as a Doctor in Medicine. At 28 years old, Cassandra is also the youngest Board Member of the East Gippsland School of Aboriginal Health Profession. She is a student representative for Indigenous Monash University Students and attended as a guest speaker and role model at the Young KoorieWomens event held in Bairnsdale. She paints her own Aboriginal art work and visits Indigenous Communities in other states to broaden her knowledge

Medibank Healthy Participation Award
Delacombe Primary School has 260 students, many of whom are socially disadvantaged. The school has received funding during the past four years to develop an Environmental Program to support 'students at risk'. This has included building a vegetable garden and chook shed and running a cooking program, using the vegetables and eggs to cook food to sell through the canteen. The school works with the local Community Health Centre and a dietician to educate families about healthy food options

Ricoh Australia Environment and Sustainability Award
Kaniva College has a sustainability mission to enrich the lives of impoverished people by collecting, distributing and recycling and reusing unwanted items. A partnership has been developed with the Rotary Clubs of Melbourne’s “Donations In Kind” warehouse program and the “Bikes for Humanity” program. Students mend and donate recycled bikes, computers and other items to the Rotary Clubs and they distribute them to underprivileged people in Africa, Asia and Fiji. Kaniva College hasalready sent 80 computers and 50 bikes with more to come

Prime Super Community Group of the Year Award
Firefoxes Australia of Pheasant Creek, is a not-for-profit organisation that started after the Black Saturday bush fires in 2009. Firefoxes has brought thousands of people together through retreats, leadership training, workshops and special events and dinners with inspirational guest speakers. They provide a voice and advocate for self care and a range of mental health services by connecting with Government, industry and community agencies.Firefoxes has since implemented their programs across Australia

 

2012 Winners 

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award
Design Experts of Bendigo, is a website design studio. Since inception in 2008, the business has grown from three to thirteen staff and now operates in three regional locations. It also has agents in Sydney and Bundaberg. Design Experts service 700 clients and have created more than 500 online solutions, which have been developed and are maintained via the internet. The business recently acquired it's first international website in Puerto Rico. They have also delivered over 300 eBusiness workshops about growing a business online to thousands of regional businesses.

Regional Development Victoria Trade and Career Achievement Award
Teho Kapakoulakis of Golden Square, is a leading regional Physiotherapist with more than 20 years experience in his special interest areas of Orthopaedic and Sports Physiotherapy. Theo has been integral to the significant changes in Bendigo Health's Orthopaedic Waiting List for Hip Knee osteoarthritis pain. He has also been instrumental in the introduction of Physiotherapy in the Emergency Department. Theo provides Physiotherapy services for the Bendigo Gold Football Club and volunteers at major sporting events in the area.

Parks Victoria Regional Achiever Award
Sarah Cook of Chewton, graduated with a dance and teaching degree in 1999. She has spent the past 12 years developing accessible activities, events and programs for disadvantaged young people in regional Victoria. Her achievements include founding "Movement Zone Dance School" and the not-for-profit organisation "Xtremelnc Youth Projects". She also launched Station Y, a Youth Space Activity Program and teaches remote indigenous youth in the Kimberleys. In her spare time she volunteers as a mentor on a Mount Alexander Youth Mentor Project.

Parks Victoria Environment and Sustainability Award
Demodairy Co-Operative Limited of Terang, was established in 1996. It is a 160 hectare commercial dairy providing dairy education, extension, research, trials, conferences and events. Demonstration sites help farmers, schools and community groups to improve farm management, energy, water efficiencies and environmental outcomes. In the past 5 years, DemoDAIRY has managed $600,000 in environmental projects including sustainable and energy saving buildings, indigenous plantings, recycling and farm waste management programs. More than 2,000 people visit annually.

BlueScope Distribution Leadership and Innovation Award
McKern Steel of Eaglehawk, is a family business that has become the major steel supplier to the domestic home building industry in Victoria. Managing Director Michael McKern is an outstanding leader and his commitment to providing innovative products has driven the company's success. McKern Steel has a $20 million annum turnover, and has given $75,000 back to local community organisations, including through the McKern Steel Foundation. It is the biggest employer in Eaglehawk and one of the largest in central Victoria.

Medibank Healthy Participation Award
Paul Kimber of Geelong, has been volunteer manager of "The Outpost", an outreach centre based in the heart of Geelong for 16 of its 22 year history. He is on-call 24/7, dedicating over 40 hours a week to providing emergency assistance for homeless people. Paul assists with food, medical assistance, accommodation, counselling and referrals. Paul encourages people in need to get together and meet in a safe place, share a meal and seek medical help when needed. Paul manages 80 volunteers and sees that over 24,000 meals are served to the needy every year.

Department of Sustainability and Environment Water Efficiency Improvements Award
Northern Grampians Shire Council developed the Stawell Storm Water Alternative Natural Solutions Project in 2011. The project involves the construction of water quality treatment ponds, storage dams, linkages and transfer infrastructure across the town. Stormwater subsequently irrigates sportsgrounds, parks, gardens and street trees. An assessment carried out this year has allowed the collection of storm water to be increased, sediment issues to be resolved and there is also now less need for human intervention.

Prime Super Community Group of the Year Award
Girgarre Development Group was formed in 2003 to take charge of the future of the town and surrounding farming district. It has established a monthly Girgarre Farmers Produce Market and built a significant events calendar to encourage visitation to the town. It has upgraded recreation reserve infrastructure, restored the Girgarre Memorial Hall, developed a "Talented Tiny Towns" alliance and formulated a strategy to build up the local Kindergarten. They have also funded a community car, school equipment and a CFA vehicle.

 

2011 Winners

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award
Tristar Medical Group of Mildura provides quality, affordable, and accessible health care to under-doctored communities. Since commencing business from a solo general practice in Warracknabeal, TMG now has 29 clinics throughout regional and rural Australia with a staff of 90 GPs, 20 full-time practice nurses and 140 support staff. They are active in the communities they operate in and provide financial and in-kind support to many local organisations. Each clinic bulk bills and is open seven days a week with an after-hours consultation service.

Regional Development Victoria Trade and Career Achievement Award
Andrea Harrison of Birchip, developed and manufactured her own range of children's shoes under the brand Soomi while also raising her young family. She also turned the logistical problem of sourcing children's clothing in a remote area into an exciting business opportunity. Andrea started her online store, "Kawaii Kids" in 2008 which has become the top online Australian store selling Japanese and Korean children's fashion. This year a sister site "The Kawaii Notebook" has also been established. Andrea also opened her first store in Birchip in 2010 and a new store is planned.

Parks Victoria Regional Achiever Award
Lizzie Corke of Cape Otway, is the Co-founder and CEO of the Cape Otway Conservation Ecology Centre and an inspiration to all who meet her. Growing up in the bush led Lizzie to study Zoology. She is a registered wildlife carer and in 2009 established a tree banding and koala monitoring project. Recent achievements include the establishment of the Conservation Ecology Centre and obtaining a permit to keep endangered Tiger Quolls for education and research. She is currently working towards establishing a local conservancy among neighbouring property owners.

Parks Victoria Environment and Sustainability Award
South Gippsland Landcare Network through community action, helps to preserve, protect and enhance the long-term sustainability of farming and the environment. The highlight of the Network is not the number of trees planted, but the 712 Landcare families involved in the 18 Landcare Groups. These members and supporters, have for over 15 years worked to plant trees, improve their soil and protect their remnants regardless of changes to funding. Recent projects include the Cape Liptrap to Bunurong Biodiversity Biolink and the Tarwin Catchment Enhancement Project.

Fonterra Dairy Leadership Award
Young Dairy Development Program, develops leadership and inspires young people to work cooperatively to ensure success in dairy. It is the only state-wide program specifically for the development of young dairy farmers. Events, open to all young people interested in dairy, meet the needs of young dairy farmers and service providers, and delivers skills, knowledge and pathways for the future. In the last 12 months membership has increased 19% to over 1,500 including over 1,000 young dairy farmers. During this period over 60 events have been run throughout the state.

Medibank Healthy Participation Award
Gippsport and The Big Issue of Morwell, is a Street Soccer Program using sport to promote social inclusion and personal change for the homeless, marginalised and disadvantaged. The program is free for males and females 16 years and older. Over one hundred people have participated and eight players attended the State camp in 2010 and 2011. Three were selected to represent Country Victoria at the Street Soccer National Championships. Eight participants have also completed the Football Federation Grassroots Coaching Course.

BlueScope Distribution Leadership and Innovation Award
Rotary Club of Kerang, are leaders and innovators in their community. They have developed a picnic/recreational area, run local Awards, send students on trips and to camps and have revitalised the Annual Art Show. The club has also continued its annual "Schoolies Alternative Project", providing an opportunity for students to travel to Cambodia to perform essential voluntary building and repair works. The club provides a team leader, a teacher from each participating school and a member from the Victorian Police as part of the overseeing team.

Department of Sustainability and Environment Water Efficiency Improvements Award
Kyneton District Health Service, is a public hospital with 26 overnight acute beds, 6 day stay beds, 3 chair dialysis services and a 30 bed Nursing Home. There is a significant commitment to environmental management. A number of water saving projects include rainwater harvesting, water pulse metering, the installation of a UV sterilizing/filtering system, ozone laundry and water recapture and reuse. Water use has been halved with a saving of 3.5 mega litres. The money saved has been invested in the employment of a social worker.

Beaurepaires Road Safety Award
Gary Lovell of Shepparton, is commander with the Shepparton Search and Rescue Squad and has been a member for 30 years. Gary developed a Schools Safety Program and visits schools and other youth related organisations delivering the free program. His program is adapted to the age group and includes power point presentations, videos and class room activities. One video for older students is an account by a young man who lost control of his car killing his three young passengers. Gary also delivers presentations for the Cool Heads Police Program and the Ready2Drive Program.

Prime Super Community Group of the Year Award
Heyfield Community Resource Centre, provides educational and social engagement programs for its 1,400 local residents. The Centre has focused on decreasing environmental impact. Projects were initiated to reduce household waste, waterand energy consumption and to increase disability access and safety for life-long sustainable living. The Centre implemented it's own "Sustainable Smart Town Program" in 2010, and 365 out of 700 homes participated. Increased community engagement, changed attitudes and sustainable living awareness resulted.

 

2010 Winners

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award
Wilson Transformer Company of Wodonga, is Australian owned and has been manufacturing since 1933. Wilson's supplyproducts used in electricity networks throughout Australia. Turnover in 2009 was $100 million and they are the market leaders in their product range. Revenue growth has increased by 400% in the past 7 years with the manufacturing cycle reduced from 14 days to 2 days. Wilson's have recently invested $800,000 in staff improvements and $15 million in new equipment and building works. Staff levels will increase from 240 to 290 as a result.

Regional Development Victoria Trade and Career Achievement Award
Elise Anderson of Castlemaine, bought her first business "Fair Dinkum Dog Coats" at 19. A year later she purchased "Midland Stock & Poultry Supplies". She then introduced a website, increasing her client base by 25%. Both businesses are flourishing through the benefits of cross promotion and Elise's ever-growing product knowledge. With a focus on developing long term relationships with customers, Elise continues to extend her customer base Australia wide, fast gaining a reputation for quality products and service. Elise is an inspiring role model for other young people.

Parks Victoria Regional Achiever Award
Dr Doris Paton of Morwell, is a Gunai/Monaro Ngarigo woman who is a Team Leader of the Gipps TAFE's Koorie Education Unit. Doris works tirelessly toward improving opportunities for indigenous people. She is a leader in cross cultural engagement and improving education and employment outcomes in the indigenous community. Doris is also passionate in her support of preserving indigenous languages, through teaching and her contribution to State and National committees including as Vice Chair of the Victorian Aboriginal Corporation for Languages. She recently completed her PHD in Philosophy - Education.

Parks Victoria Environment and Sustainability Award
RiverConnect of Shepparton, was established in 2006 to oversee the health of the Goulburn-Broken Rivers and surrounding red gum forests. This encompasses Reedy Swamp, Gemmill's Swamp and the culturally significant floodplain area known as "the flats". RiverConnect facilitates, resources and supports partner organisations in reducing environmental impacts. The community has been mobilised to build capacity and take part in projects which influence the health of the river and its surrounds. This then improves the communities' patterns of consumption and environmental behaviour.

Fonterra Dairy Leadership Award
Macalister Demonstration Farm of Riverslea, has been providing dairy skills and knowledge for fifty years. Owned and operated by the community it runs a successful demonstration dairy farm which conducts research and demonstrations. In 2008/2009 its shareholders produced 590 million litres of milk from 510 dairy farms. The MDF looks for the latest ideas to lead the way for farmers. Their trials, demonstrations and extension activities are based around 'real' and commercially viable dairy farms which assist farmers to make informed decisions leading to greater profitability.

RACVfree2go Youth Community Involvement Award
The Tallangatta Herald Team, consists of students from Tallangatta Secondary College who run a fortnightly community newspaper. Students are involved in all aspects of production and they go out into the community to cover stories. This enables students to engage creatively within the community empowering them to make real and viable connections between groups and individuals. The Herald is a free paper with a circulation of 1,600. The paper is a tangible expression of the vitality of the community and is a credit to the student team that produce the paper.

BlueScope Distribution Leadership and Innovation Award
Kennedy Trailers of Bairnsdale, has manufactured custom built trailers for the logging industry, heavy machinery floats and also side tipping trailers for road trains for 30 years. They are a family owned business, starting in a shed in the back yard. They are now in a large 2,660 square, purpose built factory and are the largest employer of apprentices in East Gippsland. Through leadership, research and development Kennedy Trailers are at the forefront of innovative design and change, constantly improving the safety and efficiency of their trailers. They are also involved in community sponsorship and leadership programs including mentoring and interview training for school students.

Prime Super Community Group of the Year Award
Wycheproof Vision, is a group of dedicated community members that promote the town with the aim of sustaining its future. The group bring the community of 700 together each year to hold the very successful "Grain Festival", the only Grain Festival in Australia. The festival incorporates the 'Music on the Mount' which grows in size each year. A grant has been achieved to upgrade facilities for the smallest registered mountain in the world, Mt. Wycheproof. The rail station has been renovated through a Vic Track Heritage Grant and shopfronts including the old RSL Hall are being turned into youth rooms and a business hub.

 

2009 Winners

Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award
Luv a Duck of Nhill, is Australia's leading producer of duck products. The main farm and processing plant are located in Nhill, with sales and distribution centres located throughout the country. The company has a strong culture of training and professional development of its staff and is closely linked to its local community. Luv A Duck is a fully integrated operation, including egg production, breeding, hatching, growing, processing, selling and distribution divisions. Luv A Duck employs over 200 staff and houses more than 500,000 ducks with an extensive retail roasted duck range as well as duck accompaniment range.

Regional Development Victoria Trade and Career Achievement Award
Susan Brumby of Hamilton, is Director of Community Services for the Western District Health Service. In her role, Sue identified a need to research farmer health and the impact this has on overall farm productivity. Sue accessed funding for a pilot program and the award winning Sustainable Farm Families (SFF) initiative was born! This program has been improving the health of rural communities since 2003. The SFF program is the centrepiece of the National Centre for Farmer Health which was established in 2008 with Sue as Director.

Parks Victoria Regional Achiever Award
Julie and David Hayes of Hallora, established the Blackwood Centre for Adolescent Development. The Centre is a rural setting for young people at risk. They have, for fifteen years been the driving force and led a team of teachers and volunteers in developing ways to stimulate cognitive development and impact on young people's ability to succeed in education. Students are referred by up to 15 local schools. Five Hundred and eighty young people have successfully undertaken this program and reintegrated back into school.

Parks Victoria Environment and Sustainability Award
Conservation Volunteers Australia of Ballarat, is not-for-profit and delivers 100,000 volunteer days annually on conservation programs. CVA works with Catchment Management Authorities, businesses, community groups, tourism organisations, Local, State and Federal Governments, NGO's and land owners. CVA is a Registered Training Organisation and their programs have been awarded Ecotourism Certification. CVA is a member of the United Nations Environment Program Global 500.

Bartercard Local Hero Award
Kevin and Rhonda Butler of Kilmore East, decided to utilize their ability to organize and lead people to help others affected by the devastation of the Black Saturday Fires. Under the banner "Blaze Aid", Kevin has attracted volunteers from all over Australia and the world and has re-fenced over 400km with over 7500 volunteer days work. These volunteers have also helped to restore the spirits of fire survivors as they work together. Many volunteers are accommodated and fed by the Butler's. Their work continues in spite of having their own farm to run.

RACVfree2go Youth Community Involvement Award
Ben Easton of Swan Hill, is a founding member of Lead On Swan Hill and FreeZA and assists with local Victoria Police youth programs. He has been instrumental in securing a stronger youth focus for the local area and encouraging other young people to get involved in the community. Ben has won numerous Awards for his community involvement. He is leader in sport, at school and is a founding member of the Swan Hill Youth Council. Ben is also the youngest committee member on the Australian Youth Foundation Youth Engagement Committee.

Kleenheat Gas Community of the Yea
Bridgewater Youth Swimming Hole Committee of Bridgewater, has been instrumental in bringing the old swimming hole back to its former glory. The youth have contributed significantly to the design and implementation of laying turf, painting the toilets, building steps to the water, a BMX track, half basketball court, beach volleyball court, access pier and a BBQ area. They have also held fundraisers for equipment. The young people are now also involved in a project to obtain better transport for the small communities.

Kleenheat Gas Community of the Year Award (population over 5,000)
Raising Dust of Stawell, a group for young people aged 18-40 living and working in the Wimmera and Western Districts. The group aims to organise social and educational events to bring likeminded young people together for networking opportunities and fun times. Funded by Regional Development Victoria, the group is dedicated to combating rural social isolation and ensuring that young people in the area regularly have the opportunity to meet new people and enjoy everything country life has to offer. The group's most successful events to date have been their inaugural ball in 2007 and murder mystery night in 2008.

 

2008 Winners

Australia Post Business Achievement Award
Best Community Development of Ballarat, is one of Australia's fastest growing and most successful not for profit community based organisations delivering services to the community in employment, training, disability and youth in community and business areas. Over the 15 years, staff numbers have increased from 6 to 160, turnover from 350,000 to over 10 million and delivery sites from 1 to 23 with more than half of these owned by the organisation. A mission of enhancing individuals and enriching the community is achieved through commitment to continuous improvement and effective commitment to employment, education, community and business services to the general community and disadvantaged sectors

Australia Post Events and Tourism Award
Top of the Town Committee of Hamilton, held its inaugural Town Charity Ball in 2004. Due to the success of the Ball, a committee of 13 was reconvened for 12 months of planning for a 2007 event. Guests enjoyed a fabulous event in a giant marquee on the shores of Lake Hamilton to raise money for the Hamilton Base Hospital to replace an ageing Steriliser in the theatre valued at $107,000. The black tie event catered for 530 guests at $200 a ticket and featured Frankie J Holden and Wilbur Wilde. Hundreds of cars also lined the lake’s shores to view the spectacular fireworks and light display. The Ball raised $182,000 in profit which purchased additional equipment to the steriliser. The new steriliser also saves 31,000 litres of water each year.

Parks Victoria Regional Achiever Award
Robert Pollock of Red Cliffs, has been President of numerous sporting clubs and for the past 15 years has dedicated himself to the St Vincent de Paul Society. Robert has served as the Red Cliffs and Sunraysia Conference President and Vice President of the North West Central Coast Council. His recent passion has been to develop a local Vinnies Budget Grocery for those in need and has worked tirelessly overseeing its development and the 100 volunteers who run the store. The Grocery sells at considerably less than retail prices and has achieved better than expected sales. Robert is also involved in building Independent Living Units for seniors, and relocating the Ouyen and Mildura Vinnies Shops to bigger and better locations.

Parks Victoria Environment and Sustainability Award
Baw Baw Shire Council of Warragul, coordinates the collection of farm waste including silage plastic, chemical drums, farm waste oils for reuse and recycling and unwanted chemicals for safe disposal. Council’s main objective is to promote sustainable behaviour and good waste management on farms to ensure a healthy, safe and productive farming enterprise in an agricultural area which incorporates many significant national and state parks and catchment areas. Since 2001, the program has collected more than 200 tonnes of silage plastic, 11,000 farm chemical drums, 2,000 litres of farm waste oils and unwanted chemicals.

V/Line Volunteering Award
Mary Knights of Murrayville, Mary joined the Palliative Care Service as one of the first rural and remote volunteers for the Northern Mallee in 1995. After undertaking significant training which often meant driving the round trip of 420kms to Mildura, Mary’s role as a volunteer was to strengthen the ability of people and their families and friends to live as fully and richly as possible by providing compassion, comfort, companionship and all kinds of help. Mary provided support, assistance with feeding, transport and outings, giving carers a break and contact with families leading up to their loved ones death and even provided bereavement support for 12 months following the death. Mary often travelled long distances to provide Palliative Care.

V/Line Young People's Community Involvement Award
Simon Menz of Willaura, has a great passion for making a difference. He is School Captain, a life guard, an accredited hockey and basketball coach and is on the committee of numerous local community projects and events and sports clubs. He is a keen footballer and runner having won 3 major races and has competed in the Stawell Gift. Simon is a member of the CFA, volunteers at kids camps, helps the elderly, is a member of the Ararat Show Society and was selected to attend the National Aspiring Leaders Summit in Canberra. In 2007 Simon became involved in an alcohol awareness group at school and has since taken on a leadership role in education about Binge Drinking.

Kleenheat Gas Community of the Year Award (population under 5,000)
Elmore and District Community, capture’s the imagination of the tourist and encourages travellers to experience the warmth of the area. Elmore has a strong commitment to preserving its heritage reflected through tourist attractions and its buildings. More than 150,000 people flock to Elmore each year for the ever increasing number of annual events. The small community thrives on a strong community spirit which is supported by a network of volunteers who provide help with the numerous events including the Elmore and District Field Days. The small community of 880 is also looking to the future with the development of a town community plan.

Kleenheat Gas Community of the Year Award (population over 5,000)
Wimmera Uniting Care and Awakenings Festival of Horsham, have been in partnership since 1996 running an annual ten day event that has developed into a diverse and community inclusive festival program acclaimed both nationally and internationally. The entire community is involved with more than 350 volunteers servicing the 10,500 visitors and 840 registered performers across 51 events. The Awakenings Festival is Australia’s only regional disability arts festival and embraces the true spirit of the Arts and community. This amazing event engenders social change and requires committed teamwork and gives whole community empowerment.

 

2007 Winners

Australia Post Business Achievement Award
Clyne Foods of Warracknabeal, was the brain child of Chris Clyne who was concerned about the status of the dried fruit industry and in particular foreign ownership and imports. Over 3 million dollars has been invested in building a 100% Australian owned product. During 2005, the plant processed 1500 tonne of dried vine and tree fruit, with contracts for over 3600 tonne in 2006 and a 20% increase in export contracts in 2007. The company has also added value to many other rural and regional businesses during a time of hardship and drought, and has increased from 68 to 220 growers with its own brand of retail packs of dried fruits introduced into Australia.

Australia Post Events and Tourism Award
The Murrabit County Market, was established in 1977 to provide financial support and bring the community together in a period of economic difficulty. The Market has grown to be one of the largest and longest running markets in Australia culminating with a huge fireworks display. More than 400 stallholders offer a wide range of wares for the 10,000 people who attend each market. This is an amazing achievement for a population of only 490 people, almost all of whom participate and help. The market provides valuable economic and social outcomes and has created a strong sense of community pride and financial independence.

Parks Victoria Regional Achiever Award
Shane Robertson of Warrnambool is only 18 years old, but has achieved more than most could in a lifetime. He was elected Youth Mayor in 2006, named the National “Lions Youth of the Year” and was awarded the highest umpiring award in Victoria – the “Golden Whistle” for his dedication to Football umpiring. Shane is School Captain for Warrnambool College and was President of the SRC in 2006. He is a member of many musical ensembles and has directed numerous musical showcases and recently attained his Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. Shane is often required to make presentations and speeches for the youth leadership programs and State Government Youth committees he is involved with.

Parks Victoria Environment and Sustainability Award
The GipRip Project of Gippsland, has been instrumental in encouraging Gippsland Dairy farmers to implement environmental, land-care and sustainability practices on their farms and along their waterways. The program which began in 2002 in response to the deteriorating health of Gippsland’s waterways has rehabilitated almost 40 kilometres of waterways and made improvements to water quality, biodiversity, erosion and bank stability in the rehabilitated areas. The GipRip Project has also seen an increase in the number of dairy farmers involved in land-care activities.

The Department for Planning and Community Development Volunteering Award
The Charlton Community Theatre, was built in 1938 and has served the community continually since. The Art Deco Rex Theatre was set for closure in 2005 until the formation of the Charlton Community Theatre Board took on the project to save the Theatre. The Theatre Board and its 60 dedicated volunteers have gained the full support of a wide cross section of the community and the Theatre is experiencing a dramatic revival. The Theatre services the entertainment and cultural needs of a wide area of rural communities and adds significant social and economic value to Charlton by drawing in many tourists and travellers.

The Department for Planning and Community Development Young Peoples Community Involvement Award
Crash Course Productions Inc of Drysdale, consists of 13 young people and many volunteers, bands, parents and Council staff. They have run and evaluated 22 major events over the past 3 years including numerous live band performances, games events, fashion parades and art shows. The result has been a vibrant and thriving all ages’ scene filling a social activity gap for locals. Over $20,000 has been raised for a PA system for the “Potato Shed” which thanks largely to Crash Course Productions, has become a popular “all ages” venue. They have been so successful that a number of members now have their own production companies, run their own events and are hired as event managers by others.

Kleenheat Gas Community of the Year Award (pop under 5,000)
The Community of Boolarra, has come from humble beginnings as a small railway stop to a now thriving town of 600 people in the foothills of the Strezelecki Ranges. After suffering tough economic times with shops closing and people leaving due to lack of work, the Community Development Group was established six years ago. The group is responsible for coordinating the community and it’s 350 plus volunteers to develop and undertake an enormous number of projects including a skate park, walkways and tracks, events and fundraisers, markets, a toilet block, bus shelters, grants, and a successful annual folk festival all of which contribute to the sustainable economic development of the town.

Kleenheat Gas Community of the Year Award (pop over 5,000)
The Community of Maryborough's civic centre is surrounded by one of Australia's most significant clusters of public buildings and fine architecture and the Railway Station is an award winning tourist attraction. The population of over 7,000 is focused on working together cohesively to ensure the best possible quality of life for the community with over 15% of residents over 15 involved in community work. Activities include the annual CFA Education Centre, the Highland Gathering, RACV Energy Breakthrough Project, the establishment of a food manufacturing cluster and a value-adding agricultural and transport cluster.

 

2006 Winners

Department for Victorian Communities Volunteering Award
Walwa Community Emergency Response Team of Walwa, The CERT team is part is a part of a small community about 100 kilometres from Wodonga. The CERT team provides immediate first aid at medical emergencies before the arrival of an ambulance. The 16 volunteers in the CERT undertake comprehensive training with Rural Ambulance Victoria. The presence of the CERT in Walwa has contributed to a significant increase in local community confidence.

Department for Victorian Communities Young People's Participation Award
Dani Kline of Bendigo Central, has made a significant impact and contribution statewide through her involvement with numerous organisations. Dani has a passion for youth participation and for young people to speak up and be heard. Through her involvement in mental health forums, SBS Insight, Victorian Youth Affairs Council, Youth Loop newspaper and Youth Commonwealth Games, Dani shows the results that can be achieved by young people working together.

Australia Post Business Achievement Award
AWMA Pty Ltd of Cohuna, specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of water control infrastructure, technology and solutions to the irrigation, urban and waste water sectors. In the past 6 years, AWMA has established a 6 acre manufacturing site, employing a team of over 60 employees. AWMA are dedicated to ensuring products assist in saving time, money and water for customers and are dedicated to researching and developing innovative infrastructure and technology that improves the economic and environmental sustainability of our national water resources.

Australia Post Events and Tourism Award
The Elmore and District Machinery Field Days, are held annually over three days during the first week of October. More than 650 exhibitors and up to 50,000 people attend each year. Over 300 volunteers from local community organisations facilitate the smooth running of the Field Days providing catering and other services such as parking, ticket sales and courier services. These volunteers earn a share of the profits for their organisations, which together with sponsorships and grants greatly benefit the community. To date over $1,775,000 has been donated to local projects.

Parks Victoria Regional Achiever Award
Chris Shoemaker of Sarsfield, is a nurse with 24 years experience in the Community Health field. Chris has a passion for sharing messages of health and wellbeing and coordinates a Pulmonary Rehabilitation and CHIPS program for young people with chronic illnesses. Chris has participated in many community events including the Victorian Aboriginal Football & Netball Carnivals when she took 16 indigenous young people to an AFL game and arranged a Western Bulldogs host-visit weekend. Chris is also a volunteer with many organisations and is on numerous committees.

Parks Victoria Environment and Sustainability Award
Camperdown College Environment Group, consists of students who organise a diverse range of environmental activities. The group through its own nursery has provided over 40,000 indigenous trees and 60,000 native grasses to community groups and projects and is actively involved in the Mt Leura and Mt Sugarloaf revegetation projects. They conducted the first ever student Wetlands Conference in 2001 as well as an annual environment week. They have their own environment centre, recycling shed and solar energy grid and undertake significant community projects with numerous environmental groups across Australia.

Kleenheat Gas Community of the Year Award (Population under 5,000)
Community of Bruthen & District, is a small blossoming community in East Gippsland. Community spirit is very strong with an annual Blues and Arts Festival, monthly Village Markets, the Rail Trail and the newly launched Bush Walking Trails. Other new initiatives include a Medical Centre, Streetscape Plan, and a Historic Shop. Volunteerism is very strong and an award winning community newspaper keeps the community well informed of activities. The community has also developed a five year plan and has a clear direction for the future.

Kleenheat Gas Community of the Year Award (Population over 5,000)
Township of Lara, once a farming community, Lara has a wonderfully diverse range of active community groups and individuals who have a passion and a common goal to make Lara a truly great place to live! Lara has a mini botanic gardens, restored historical buildings, excellent community integrated educational programs, active sporting, community and service groups, a town development plan, a unique nursery, a community centre and an attractive and well maintained town entrance. Lara is a clean and environmentally conscious town with many parks and an award winning wetlands.

 

2005 Winners

Australia Post Business Achievement Award
Patties Foods Pty Ltd of Bairnsdale, commenced as a small family owned cake shop in Lakes Entrance in 1966 with a staff of four. Run by the 6 sons of Peter and Annie Rijs, the original founders, it is a true Australian success story. Patties Foods is the market leader in the manufacture and marketing of frozen savoury pastries and frozen desserts with brands including Patties, Herbert Adams, Nanna’s, Snowy River and the Australian icon “Four’n Twenty”. Patties supplies the national grocery, route and foodservice markets and is a major employer in East Gippsland. It is regarded as the largest pie making manufacturing Company in Australia.

Australia Post Events and Tourism Award
The Man from Snowy River Bush Festival of Corryong, is held annually in Corryong, bringing together the Upper Murray Community with people from around Australia and internationally to celebrate traditional High Country and bush culture, in particular the imagery created by Banjo Paterson’s famous poem “The Man form Snowy River”. This is a unique bush gathering of mountain riders, poets, artists, and lovers of the Australian High Country and pioneering spirit. The Festival offers contestant, visitor and local alike a unique opportunity to be part of the celebration of traditional Australian bush skills. Over 18,000 attendees bring to the township an estimated economic contribution of 3 million dollars.

Parks Victoria Regional Achiever Award
Dr Bernie Jenner of Geelong West sees family, community, pursuit of excellence, unity, human kindness and caring, especially of those most vulnerable, as the reason for living. As founding member and President of Gateways Support Services and Hope Bereavement Care, Bernie improves the quality of life on a daily basis for people with disabilities and those bereaved. His care and selflessness sees that no one suffers alone, even through life’s most unthinkable tragedies, the death of a child. Bernie believes that giving is the true gift and essence of living, a philosophy that has inspired others to make change – a wonderful legacy that will see a better community today, tomorrow and for our future.

Parks Victoria Environment and Sustainability Award
Grampians Regional Waste Management Group of Stawell. A trial conducted in 2001 by the Grampians Regional Waste Management Group for turning green waste into pasteurised mulch suitable for agriculture use rendered such impressive results that a consortium of grape growers pooled their resources to purchase a compost shredder for shared use across the region. Water conservation of up to 30% has been achieved by the local grape growers and the four participating councils have recycled 7000 tonnes of green waste, effectively diverting 34,700m3 of material away from landfill. The Grampians green waste project exemplifies triple bottom line outcomes, with not only the environment benefiting but also local business and the community as a whole.

Kleenheat Gas Community of the Year Award (Population under 10,000)
Culgoa Community Co-Op Ltd of Culgoa. When the township looked like loosing its store, the Community formed a group and decided to buy it. A co-operative was formed to give ownership of the store to the members of the community. One dollar shares were purchased in 50 dollar bundles. Many hours of work have gone into the refurbishment and running of the store. The store incorporates the newsagency, grocery store, video hire, internet access, hairdressing, secretarial services, professional room hire and catering. Paid and volunteer staff are utilised by the co-op board to run the very successful store.

Kleenheat Gas Community of the Year Award (Population over 10,000)
Save Our Train Community Action Group of Bairnsdale, was formed to secure the reinstalment of the twice daily Bairnsdale - Melbourne rail passenger service withdrawn in August 1993. Membership represented a wide cross section of the whole community that was constantly kept informed of the Groups’ strategies and activities. The action based campaign was characterised by thorough, responsible research and logical presentation of arguments. Strictly non-partisan, all political parties and interest groups were persistently lobbied. With the objective constantly being pushed within all levels of bureaucracy and government, the group finally won the day after an eleven year campaign.