By Esther Lauaki
George Donaldson spent 15 years as one of the welcoming faces at the Werribee Visitor Information Centre.
Mr Donaldson’s years of service to the community has earned him the top honour for arts, culture and tourism in the Wyndham council Community Volunteer Awards.
The Hoppers Crossing resident has also been heavily involved in other social support programs such as Lunch with the Bunch – a social lunch group for older residents which aims to encourage independence.
Wyndham mayor Mia Shaw said the awards were a chance to recognise and thank those who contributed their time to the community.
“George has provided excellent frontline customer service to visitors in the Wyndham area and shared his knowledge of the many wonderful destinations and experiences available in Wyndham,” Cr Shaw said.
“Volunteers keep our local sporting or community groups running, care for our environment, contribute to art and culture, build engagement and connection between diverse groups of people, and support the health and wellbeing of others.”
Other recipients for the awards included: Community Engagement Award, Erum Ali; Young Volunteer of the Year, Emily Lacy; Community Health and Wellbeing, Roger Vistarini; Environment and Sustainability, Lisa Field; Sports and Recreation, Gaurav Malhotra. “The contributions of each one of these individuals helps make our community a better, more vibrant, inclusive and welcoming place for all of us,” Cr Shaw said.
The category winners will attend a presentation evening on August 16 where Wyndham Citizen of the Year will be awarded to one of the individual category winners.
