The astonishing scale and diversity of the recipients' contributions to the community was the talking point at last week's Hamilton City Council Civic Awards ceremony.
The council chamber was full, with family, friends and dignitaries for the city's annual act of appreciation. Mayor Andrew King presented each of the recipientswith a framed certificate and a lapel pin, Deputy Mayor Martin Gallagher read citations that drew warm applause throughout, and each recipient then spoke.
"One of my personal values is to always say thank you to those working tirelessly to improve the life of their fellow citizens," said Mayor King.
"It is great the Civic Awards recognise grassroots achievers in our community. These people are committed to building a better Hamilton, giving up their own time over many years to support a variety of communities and causes. I applaud them all."
The Civic Awards are an annual fixture in the council calendar, celebrating the contributions to Hamilton made by the city's residents. Recipients are nominated by members of the community, with nominations assessed by the council.
The full list of 2017 recipients: Bernie and Kaye Crosby — Services to Business and the Community; Jo De Lisle — Services to Education and the Community; Jenevere Foreman — Services to the Community; Gail Gilbert — Services to the Community; Peter Humphreys — Services to Social Justice; Richard Lawrence — Services to the Community; Bill McArthur — Services to the Arts and the Community; Mhyre Oman — Services to Sport; Mark Perry — Services to the Arts and the Community; Ravinder Powar — Services to the Community; Dr Richard (Peter) Rothwell — Services to Medicine; Anthea Simcock — Services to the Community; Ken Williamson — Services to Education and the Community; Rachel Wood — Services to the Community; Marilyn Yeoman — Services to the Community (absent).
