This year’s recipients of the Community 2121 Awards for Epping were announced on 27 November at an Awards dinner held in conjunction with Epping Rotary. Four very worthy local residents were acknowledged for their volunteer work in local organisations.

The Community 2121 Awards (named after Epping’s 2121 postcode!), celebrates outstanding volunteers in our district who contribute so much but are often unsung heroes. They help local residents, contribute to vibrant local activities, and help our local environment.

This year, there were four recipients:

Paul Hutcheson

A long-time volunteer at North Epping Rangers, Paul is known as a quiet achiever – a coach, a mentor, committee member and all-around helper at this busy, popular soccer and netball club in North Epping.

Dessy Le

Nominated by CCA NSW through their local branch in Eastwood, Dessy is a popular volunteer for their Meals on Wheels service. Volunteering most Saturdays, Dessy delivers meals to local elderly or house-bound residents. The nomination highlighted her empathy and companionship through the service, bringing light into the lives of many.

Sue Hart

Epping local, Sue Hart was nominated for her years of service to the local Girl Guide units and more widely to this youth organisation. She has contributed to West Epping Guides as a volunteer, unit leader, and more recently as part of the Guide Trefoil section (for adult Guiders).

Joanne Colquhoun

Someone who has volunteered in many ways to her North Epping community, Joanne was specifically nominated for her work in co-founding (with other like-minded locals) Move It On North Epping. This organisation strives to grow recycling and educate locals on what and on to repurpose materials. Her efforts have greatly raised awareness in the area as seen by growth in specific recycling drives.