General News
24 November, 2021
Years of volunteering recognised
THE wonderful contributions of older Victorians have been celebrated with the announcement of the 2021 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.
THE wonderful contributions of older Victorians have been celebrated with the announcement of the 2021 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.
For more than 25 years, the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards have recognised the volunteer work and community contributions of older Victorians.
This year’s awardees – including Timboon volunteer John Fox – highlight the resilience, compassion, and commitment of senior Victorians across the state.
Mr Fox is an active volunteer across a range of organisations and services in the Timboon area.
During COVID he stepped up without hesitation to ensure continuation of services.
As a Meals on Wheels volunteer he took on the shifts of older colleagues at that time, ensuring that isolated community members were supported with a chat and a smile.
In country Victoria, community transport volunteers are vital and his reliability and capacity to respond to last minute requests to provide transport for medical appointments is much appreciated.
Mr Fox acknowledges a personal journey from severe depression to recovery through his community volunteering and participation and this drives his care and commitment and serves as a pathway model for others.
Timboon and District Healthcare Service nominated him for the awards in recognition of all his contributions and is a great example of how volunteering can assist with improving mental wellbeing.
Mr Fox is also actively involved with other community groups including Timboon and District Healthcare Service, Timboon Men’s Shed, Timboon Evergreens Senior Citizens Club and Terang Harness Racing Club.
The Victorian Senior of the Year Awards are presented annually as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival. Award recipients will be celebrated in-person with a ceremony at Government House in February 2022.
Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers James Merlino congratulated all award winners and nominees.
“Despite the challenges of 2021, senior Victorians continue to step up and give back to their community – and the awards give us the chance to say thanks for all that they do,” he said.
“Congratulations to all 2021 Victorian Senior Award recipients and nominees.”
For more information about the awards and 2021 awardees visit the Seniors Online website at https://www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/.