Three Armidale locals, plus a former mayor, a Guyra resident, and a former New England MP were among those recognised in today's 2020 Queen's Birthday Honours List.
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It is always enjoyable to hear the stories behind these honours, as it shines a spotlight on people making a difference in our community.
Caroline Downer has spent many years involved with the local arts community. Caroline was director of the New England Regional Art Museum for eight years, a former chair of the Armidale Youth Orchestra and also volunteered with many local events.
After Diane Trestrail was diagnosed with Parkinson's she formed the Armidale Parkinson's Encouragement Group and has received an OAM for service to people living with Parkinson's, and to the community.
Aileen MacDonald has received an OAM for services for the community of Guyra. She has been a dedicated volunteer for the Guyra and District Chamber of Commerce, the Guyra Rotary Club and the Liberal Party, and played a key role in securing the town's water supply.
For 30 years Lindy Commens has been a special education teacher in Armidale. Lindy Commens has received a Public Service Medal for outstanding public service to education in New South Wales, particularly to families of children with disabilities.
Tony Windsor, who was the federal member for New England from 2001 to 2013, has received an AM for significant service to the Parliaments of Australia and New South Wales, and to the community of New England.
Finally, former Armidale mayor Doug Hewitt has been recognised for his service to the communities of both Armidale and Nambucca Heads. Mr Hewitt served as mayor of Armidale City Council three times, from 1973 to 1974, 1978 to 1979 and 1983 to 1986.
As that saga countinues, one councillor, Diane Gray, resigned from the council last week.
It has been disappointing to see what has happened to the council, because we were reminded last week that it can achieve a lot for our community, when working together.
Barnaby Joyce announced the council would receive $2 million from the federal government towards the new hydrotherapy pool complex.
I hope you are enjoying the long weekend, and keeping warm!
And don't forget, if you know about a great story you'd like to see the Express reporting, drop me an email at laurie.bullock@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
Have a great week!
Laurie Bullock, editor
