Winner dedicates award to fellow volunteers

The very humble Yvonne Redfern received the Community Service Award from Ms Gladys Berejiklian in Dubbo last week.

Dubbo MP Troy Grant said Ms Redfern is a tireless worker with the Wellington Eisteddfod and many other organisations.

She has taught scripture at Wellington schools for 32 years, spent several years on Rotaract, has worked to establish the Combella Hall playgroup, and has been on several boards and committees over 25 years. 

“Yvonne is one of those unsung heroes, who does so much for people...” Mr Grant said. “Never is there a problem that can’t be dealt with by the effort Yvonne puts in. She is a consummate community champion.”

Ms Redfern said she was grateful to be nominated for a passion she said is driven by God, however was reluctant to accept the award.

“It was a surprise,” she said. “I can honestly say I’m reluctant to accept awards because there are so many people who don’t get them for the hard work they put in.

“There’s a lot of people in Wellington who put in a lot of hard work all the time – both voluntary and in their workplaces, so I’m reluctant to accept an award.

“I’m not trying to be ungrateful, I feel honoured, but I see so much going on that isn’t rewarded.” She said she accepted the award on behalf of the team of volunteers she works alongside.

“Most things that I do in the community are done as part of a team, there is a whole team of people working toward that same goal,” she said.

“It’s not like I go out on my own, there’s so many other’s who participate in the events that I help organise.

“I’m happy to accept the award on behalf of those who help me do all those things every year.” 

Ms Redfern wished to thank her family for their ongoing support, and the Premier for acknowledging volunteers.

“It’s great the Premier does recognise volunteer work because so many organisations rely on volunteers,” she said.