Media Releases 2012
Sporting stalwart is leading citizen
20 Jan 2012
Margaret Beardslee, of Killarney Vale, has been named Citizen of the Year as part of Wyong Shire Council’s Australia Day Awards. The honour recognises her contribution to the community.
Twice named a duathalon world age champion and the winner of the half marathon in the over 50 division of the 2009 World Masters Games, Margaret has an outstanding sporting pedigree.
However, she has worked just as hard coaching and mentoring junior and senior athletes, working as the honorary secretary of the Mingara Athletics Club and raising money to help athletes travel to events throughout Australia and overseas.
Margaret, shown receiving her award from Wyong Mayor, Bob Graham, has also contributed to Wyong Shire’s small business community as a co-owner of the ‘Coast Runners Shop’. In this capacity, she was well known for her generosity in donating goods for community fund-raising.
Lynette Smith, of Kanwal, was highly commended in the Citizen of the Year section for her dedication to the Candles Cancer Support Group; Friendship Angels network; and Wyong Community Cancer Network.
Wyong Shire Council’s other Australia Day awards marked business, volunteering, cultural, sporting and environmental achievements.
Wyong Mayor, Bob Graham, said this year’s nominees were impressive and congratulated the winners.
“Australia Day is an ideal time to reflect on these unsung heroes who play a central role in making our community and our country great,” Mayor Graham said.
“We had an impressive list of nominations this year and it was a tough field … but the winners are certainly worthy.
“Council provides these awards to recognise outstanding examples of dedication and community spirit and I’m delighted to add a personal thank you to everyone who nominated one of these dedicated community members for an award.”
In other awards, the popular Blue Light Disco was recognised for its contribution to the local community and Margaret Beardslee also received a second award in the sporting category.
Toukley Business Owner, Dawn Bailey, who founded and volunteered at Toukley Greater Vision, and is a Life Member of the Toukley & District Chamber of Commerce, received the award for contribution to business.
Budgewoi's Olive Nowland, who was a founding member of the Budgewoi Ladies Choir in 1963, was given the cultural award, while Felicity Pyke of The Entrance received the Volunteer award for her contribution to many groups including 'Wrap with Love', which knits wraps for the disadvantaged and elderly.
The environmental award was given to Allan Browne, of Chain Valley Bay, for his voluntary activities with Budgewoi Dunecare.
Council’s honours were announced by Mayor, Bob Graham, at a pre-Australia Day function at Wyong.
Media contact: Ian Roberts (02) 4350 5525 or 0408 967 236