On Friday night, Wagga's Citizen of the Year for 2020 will be selected from a field of six thoroughly deserving nominees.
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It will not be an easy choice.
Each of the nominees - Lynne Graham, Phillip McIntosh, Christopher Kanck, Ian Begg, Jennifer Currie and John Mason - have made tremendous contributions to our community and deserve to celebrated.
For anyone unfamiliar with the work done by these six individuals, here is brief breakdown of their achievements courtesy of Wagga City Council:
Lynne Graham: Two years ago Lynne established the Community Kitchen which operates out of the Baptist Church. Lynne realised many people in outlying suburbs were unable to access this service and decided that the service should be more accessible. From this grew CareVan Wagga which provides three meals a week in Ashmont, Tolland, South Wagga and Kooringal.
Phillip McIntosh: Phillip's long-time dedication to community is evident in his roles as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Commins Hendriks Pty Ltd, a current director of the Wagga Wagga RSL Club, a member of the Institute of Company Directors, a past president of the Rotary Club of Wollundry and chair of the Organising Committee of the Gears and Beers annual festival.
Christopher Kanck: Christopher volunteers with three community organisations in Wagga Wagga - The Demonstration Gardens, Wagga Wagga Community Band and the Wagga Wagga School of Arts Community Theatre, where he builds set productions. Christopher also preforms regularly as part of the Riverina Comedy Club and Community Band. In these roles he assists residents in their cultural pursuits.
Ian Begg: Ian has tirelessly given to many organisations over the years, volunteering in support of Kurrajong Waratah's race day, SIDS for Kids, Clean Up Australia Day, Clean Up Wagga Wagga, Respect Week, Baptist Church Community Kitchen, and Cancer Council annual activities including, Relay for Life, Daffodil Day, Pink Ribbon Day, Australia's Biggest Morning Tea, Shave for a Cure and Children's Medical Research.
Jennifer Currie: Jennifer has been described as a silent volunteer, dedicating her time in varied roles at the Smith Family, VIEW Club, supporting refugee families, volunteering at St Aidan's Church, Cancer Council's Daffodil Day and the Men's Rugby Choir. Jennifer has been heavily involved in Wagga softball and is a life member of the association.
John Mason: John is an active member of the Wagga Wagga Men's Shed and was a key driver in rebuilding the shed after it was destroyed by an arson attack some years ago. John's association with the Men's Shed enables him to spend time teaching and practising wood-work. The relationships he has built at the Men's Shed have contributed to the health and wellbeing of many of the members.
The Daily Advertiser congratulates the nominees and thanks them all for helping to make a difference to the lives of so many people in our community.
All the best for the week ahead, Ross.