Community champions recognised

The Community Recognition Statements congratulate or acknowledge the achievements of people or groups in the community which recognise charity work, retirement or honours and awards.

Honoured from the Edward River Council area were retiring councillor Pat Fogarty, efforts to re-establish rugby league in Deniliquin and fundraisers for Dolly’s Dream and Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome Foundation.

A posthumous award was also presented to the family of Bruce Simpson, who Mrs Dalton paid tribute to in parliament following his death.

Mrs Dalton initially introduces each recipient to NSW Parliament in short sittings throughout the year.

She then visits communities to highlight the good work further and to present certificates to those honoured.

In addition to the CRS presentations, Mrs Dalton also presented a special certificate to Dan Salmon.

Issued by the NSW Government, it acknowledges Mr Salmon’s 50 years of service as a Justice of the Peace.

Mrs Dalton’s speeches to Parliament for each of the CRS recipients are provided below.

Pat Fogarty:

I would like to recognise Pat Fogarty of Deniliquin, a dedicated public servant and cornerstone of local government in the Edward River region.

Pat's tireless work and commitment through her leadership in the Deniliquin and Edward River Councils over 21 years has greatly benefitted her community.

Elected in 1995, Pat became a driving force behind initiatives such as the Deniliquin Youth Council, fostering youth engagement in civic matters.

Pat also served the community through her full-time role at Vinnies Services and active participation in organisations like the Deniliquin Boat Club and the Deniliquin Lions Club.

Her role in the successful amalgamation of the Conargo and Deniliquin councils in 2016 showcased her ability to guide the community through complex transitions.

As mayor and later deputy mayor, Pat’s leadership was marked by her dedication to the region’s development.

I thank Pat Fogarty for her exceptional service and wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement.

Deniliquin Blue Heelers Rugby League Club:

I would like to acknowledge the successful efforts to re-establish the Deniliquin Blue Heelers Rugby League Club for the first time since 1970.

After nearly 50 years, the club is making a triumphant return to the rugby league scene in Deniliquin, thanks to the tireless efforts of Kurt Longford and the newly formed committee of Andrew Scott as vice president, Pauline Longford as secretary, and Kelly Scott and Angie Lewis-Kelly as treasurers.

Together, they have laid the groundwork for the Blue Heelers' return, including a fundraising raffle featuring a signed NSW Blues State of Origin jersey.

They hope to join the ProTen League, which reintroduced Rugby League to small communities which once were part of Group 17, providing a much-needed platform for men and women to come together socially and play sport.

Nutrien Ag Solutions Deniliquin:

I would like to recognise Nutrien Ag Solutions Deniliquin for their remarkable fundraising efforts during the ‘Do It For Dolly Day’ breakfast.

The event, initially planned for three hours, extended to five due to the overwhelming turnout, with the team managing to serve over 500 bacon and egg rolls despite the unexpected rain.

Nutrien didn’t do this alone, with local businesses Deniliquin Party Hire providing the marquee, and new business owner John Allitt of Mokanger Butcher providing all the bacon and eggs for the day.

Thanks in part to a generous $1000 donation from the Deniliquin Rodeo Committee, they raised over $11,000 for Dolly's Dream, a foundation dedicated to combating bullying and its devastating impacts.

This foundation not only honours the memory of Dolly Everett, but actively supports the mission to provide education and direct support to young people and families affected by bullying, anxiety, depression, and youth suicide.

I would again like to thank all the hard work of those involved in this fundraiser, and I look forward to hearing about next year’s fundraising success.

Walk for Katie team:

I wish to commend the incredible efforts of those involved in the ‘Walk for Katie’ - a fundraising initiative led by Bec Rourke and supported by many friends and family.

This event was dedicated to the memory of Katelyn Godfrey who tragically passed away due to Long QT Syndrome, a heart signalling disorder that can cause sudden, fast, chaotic heartbeats.

The walk aimed to raise awareness and funds for the Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome Foundation, which supports families dealing with this condition.

Bec walked an impressive 252km and raised over $7000, far exceeding the target of $500. The efforts of the community saw participants walk a total of 1000km.

The funds raised will contribute significantly to the ongoing work of the SADS Foundation, helping to provide education, support, and advocacy to save lives and assist affected families.

Your commitment and hard work is truly appreciated.

Bruce Simpson:

I recognise the late Bruce Simpson of Deniliquin, a pillar of regional agriculture and a devoted member of the Intereach Board

Bruce's impactful work and dedication has left an indelible mark on the Southern Riverina, driven by his commitment to the prosperity and sustainability of rural and regional areas.

With a career of more than 40 years in irrigated agriculture, his expertise has been invaluable in improving planning, management, water policy, and corporate governance for the benefit of many.

Bruce also led a successful farm advisory business and family farming operation.

His leadership roles, including director and chairman of Murray Irrigation and a member of the Murray-Darling Basin assessment panel, underscored his advocacy for water policy reform and sustainable farming practices.

Recognised for his wisdom, integrity, and dedication to governance within Intereach, Bruce was a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (FAICD).

His unparalleled leadership, knowledge, and passion for rural and regional development will be greatly missed.