Around 50 people attended the presentation dinner for the Rotary Club of Burnside’s 2023 Volunteer of the Parks Awards, and Leadership in Conservation, on Wednesday, 10 May 2023.
The Parks Awards set out to recognise both paid service and volunteer activities of those looking after our National Parks and are an annual event organised by the Rotary Club of Burnside.
Bob Cooper, past District Governor, opened proceedings and welcomed all while President of the awards selection committee, David Dewar, introduced the guests and read the apologies.
The award have been presented since 1983 (formerly Ranger of the Year) and in 1988, the Volunteer of the Parks award was introduced. Twelve nominations had been received for both categories. Given that the presentation was taking place during National Volunteer Week (16-22 May), it was a fitting way for our volunteers to recognise others in the community. Bob added that although there could only be one winner in each category, all nominees were actually winners, being nominated by their peers and volunteers.