Awards Highlight Value of Volunteers Work in the Community

More than 130 years of dedicated community service were recognised yesterday (June 18) when Kaipara District Citizen’s Awards were presented to Lindsey Hargreaves of Kaiwaka, David Orford of Maungaturoto and Nicholas Puharich from Dargaville.

The awards, presented by Mayor Neil Tiller during National Volunteer Awareness Week, offer the community an opportunity to acknowledge people who have made a significant contribution to the wellbeing of the Kaipara District and its citizens.

“Kaipara couldn’t be the great place it is without our volunteers and National Volunteer Awareness Week is a fitting time to spare a thought for the hundreds of these wonderful people in our midst,” says Mayor Tiller.

“They give their time, without thought of recognition or reward, in sport, children’s organisations, schools, museums, ambulance, fire brigades, service clubs or helping others less fortunate than themselves, to name just a few examples.”

“It is impossible to thank everyone individually but the Kaipara District Citizens Awards give us a chance to recognise three outstanding volunteers each year and, through them, to highlight the tremendous contribution volunteers make in our community.”

The Mayor noted that this year’s nominations from the public highlighted some exceptional people and that the awards to Lindsey Hargreaves, David Orford and Nicholas Puharich acknowledge service and commitment to the community totalling more than 130 years.

“On behalf of Council and the people of Kaipara I say congratulations and thank you for helping make Kaipara a better place for us all.”

Lindsey Hargreaves’ impressive record spans 42 years, starting with Country Girls and she was a very early member of Kaiwaka Playcentre, serving in many roles which have seen her recognised by being appointed the Playcentre’s Patron. Mrs Hargreaves still helps with training.

For the past 15 years Mrs Hargreaves has been editor of the Kaiwaka Bugle, setting aside every second weekend plus the following Monday to prepare and print this publication.

Mrs Hargreaves’ other community service includes many years leading Cubs, Scouts and then Venturers, while her contribution to St John Ambulance has been recognised by that organisation presenting her with a Serving Sister Award.

Mrs Hargreaves is also a stalwart supporter of the Historical Society and Kaiwaka Sports Association for which she has assisted for many years with catering as a fundraiser.

Her nominators describe Mrs Hargreaves as “a lovely genuine people person who serves with much humility and love.”

Since transferring to Maungaturoto in 1976 David Orford has notched up an impressive record in the community, including 26 years as secretary of the Maungaturoto Fire Brigade, of which he is a life member.

A member of the Maungaturoto and Districts Rotary Club for 30 years, Mr Orford is a past president, a Paul Harris Fellow and has an exceptional record of attendance and involvement in Rotary projects benefiting the community.

Mr Orford is still actively involved in the Avenue of Trees project between Maungaturoto and Brynderwyn, personally tending the trees and organising working bees.

He is also on the Business Association’s Maungaturoto Centennial Hall sub-committee and is the treasurer of Marsden Lodge.

A citation accompanying Mr Orford’s nomination notes him rolling up his sleeves and cleaning gutters around the town, “because they look as though they need it.”

Nicholas Puharich has lived in Dargaville for 72 years and is well known for his community involvement, especially 51 years with the Dargaville Dalmatian Social Club of which he is a charter member and is currently serving his sixth term as president. Mr Puharich is also involved with the Tamburica Orchestra as leader and tutor.

Mr Puharich has been a Dargaville Museum member for 38 years, President for four years, is a life member and was heavily involved in setting up the impressive Gumdiggers’ Wing and display.

After 43 years with Dargaville Lions Club Mr Puharich is still actively involved and is a past president and a life member.

Mr Puharich has held several offices with Dargaville Bowling Club and is a charter member and past president of the Northern Wairoa Settlers Club and he still transports senior members to and from functions.

As President of the Dargaville Stroke Club, Mr Puharich visits sick members and provides others with transport. Mr Puharich is on the executive of the Northland Kittyhawks Bowling Club which organises charity tournaments.

The Kaipara District Citizen’s Awards were established in 2001 to commemorate the International Year of the Volunteer and each year acknowledge three Kaipara volunteers who are nominated by their communities.

Today’s recipients received a framed certificate and a pin they can wear with pride. Their names will be displayed on Honours Boards in the Council’s Dargaville and Kaiwaka offices.