Two Eltham individuals and one group were recognised for their valuable input in their communities at the South Taranaki District Council's biennial Community Awards last week.
Judith Rodgers and Olwyn Duthie each received a volunteer award: individual, and the Community Action Group of Eltham (Cage) and initiative award: community and environment.
The awards recognise individuals and organisations in South Taranaki which through personal leadership, inspiration and devotion make a significant contribution to the well being of their communities.
Opening the night south Taranaki mayor Ross Dunlop said he is always astounded by the number of residents that everyday voluntarily help in some way.
It really is inspiring, he said. And the statistics confirm this. A survey of South Taranaki showed that 26 per cent of our residents are involved in voluntary and community work. This compares with a national average of 11 per cent.