A total of 26 volunteers were recently recognised for their commitment to the Puketāpapa community during an awards celebration at Fickling Convention Centre.
The recipients were celebrated for a wide range of work and contributions to local life.
These included supporting and mentoring migrant communities and youth, caring for seniors, organising events, contributing to the library, fundraising, providing professional services, through to a lifetime dedicated to athletics.
The triennial event is held by Puketāpapa Local Board to acknowledge the generosity of outstanding people nominated by fellow locals. Every successful nomination received an award.
Local board chair Ella Kumar is thrilled to have such inspirational people within Puketāpapa.
“I am amazed by the dedication and work achieved in our community by these incredible citizens from all walks of life,” she says.
“We are in awe of their efforts and are so grateful for the difference they make to our area. Congratulations to everyone who has contributed to Puketāpapa.
“One of the volunteers that stood out to me and whose acknowledgement was appropriately timed, was former Olympic medallist Barry Magee, recognised for his dedication to Owairaka (Wesley) Athletic Club.” says chair Kumar.
Barry trained at Lovelock Track in Sandringham, alongside other New Zealand greats such as Peter Snell, Bill Bailie and Jeff Julian.
He has been a coach and lifetime member at the Wesley athletic club since the 30s and continues to advise sportspeople even now in his 90s.
“His love for sports, supporting Owairaka Athletic club and other athletes has been phenomenal. Congratulations Barry Magee,” the chair adds.
Approximately 80 proud locals, family, friends and elected representatives attended the celebration, which included performances by Waikōwhai Intermediate School and Lynfield College.
The following local heroes were recognised at Puketāpapa Volunteers Recognition Awards:
Arts, Culture & Heritage
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Abdul Mohamud
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Amina Ibrahim
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Caigao Chen
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Cheyenne Minhinnick
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Helene Crown
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Lily Jin
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Rajan Patel
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Shereen Alkarmy
Economic Development
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Malcolm Fata
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Priyan Rajapaksa
Education
- Ajit Franklin
Environment and Sustainability
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Zena Wrigley
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Patricia O’Connor
Social & Community Development
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Jodi Drake
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Sandhya Bokil
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Kashika Singh
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Stephanie Gordon
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Beverley Roser, Hilary Salmons, Joanne Buchanan & Morgan Libeau
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Mumtaz Dolbel
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Jacob Graham
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Karla Beazley
Sports, Fitness and Leisure
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Barry Bryan
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Barry Magee
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