A VERY surprised Anne Whatson was named Greater Taree City Council’s Citizen of the Year at the Taree Australia Day ceremony, held at the Taree council chambers.
The citation on Anne’s award read:
“Anne is a dedicated carer and hospitality volunteer as well as a fundraiser for many local causes including the Wingham Showground and Rodeo, Meals on Wheels, the Cancer Council, CWA, scripture at Wingham Public School and the Mayo Hospital and Kiosk to name but a few.
“Anne’s contribution to her local community has been described as generous and praiseworthy.
“Anne’s qualities are said to epitomise the values which many volunteers aspire to – hardworking, dedicated and community focussed.
“Many members of the local community have been touched by Anne’s contribution through her volunteer activities in schools, hospitals and sport.”
Her face a picture of surprise when her name was read out, Anne said afterwards that she had never thought she would win - she was just a quiet person who liked to help other people.
"I thought it was very nice to be nominated. I'm so happy to have won it but I would have been just as happy to see someone else win."
She was looking forward to taking her award home and finally hanging it up on the wall with her (no doubt) numerous other certificates of thanks from all the organisations she has given countless hours to over the years.
Congratulations Anne.