Alison Todd, who has given 26 years of voluntary service to fighting cancer and helping sufferers and their families, has been named 2017 Cronulla Local Woman of the Year.
Cronulla MP and Attorney-General Mark Speakman presented awards to Ms Todd and other residents “in recognition of their tireless contribution to the community”.
Mr Speakman said Ms Todd, of Caringbah, had lost her husband, father and a very close friend to cancer.
Her unwavering dedication to Cancer Council NSW for more than quarter of a century was “inspiring”.
“Alison passionately believes volunteering can make a significant difference in the lives of cancer sufferers and their families,” he said.
”She has tirelessly supported the Cancer Council’s fundraising and community awareness campaigns and, since 2005, has given more than 100 presentations to business and community groups as part of the council’s community speakers program.”
John Kane, of Cronulla, was named the 2017 Cronulla Local Senior of the Year.
Mr Kane, an ex-serviceman with the Royal Australian Navy, is involved with Sailability Cronulla, which facilitates sailing activities for people with disability.
Mr Speakman said Mr Kane had been instrumental in helping to extend Sailability’s services to local high schools so that young students with special needs could enjoy fun and challenging on-water activities.
Each year, he sponsored and attended an Australia Day yacht race at Airlie Beach in memory of his son, Danny, a sailor with disability, who was killed in a yachting accident.
Mr Speakman also recognised 2017 Seniors Week local achievement award finalists:
- Ted Bramble, who has served for 12 years on the board of management of Project Youth, which provides legal assistance to young people facing Sutherland Court.
- Jackie Hull, a member f Gymea Netball Club for 42 years, who has served on the executive committee and as a coach, and was awarded life membership in 1986.
- Janet Kent, committee member of the Cronulla RSL 55 & Over Group for 16 years, president and tour director since 2005, member of the Kurnell Pensioners Club for 15 years and a volunteer with St James’ Church, Kurnell for 15 years.
