Three Coolamon seniors have been recognised with 2021 NSW Seniors Local Achievement Awards.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke presented the awards to the deserving recipients on the first day of the state-wide Seniors Festival.
John Mohomad was recognised for his volunteering at the Up-To-Date-Store in Coolamon where his extensive knowledge of the region, its families and antique farm machinery is enjoyed by visitors.
In his nomination Mr Mohomad was described as ‘a local treasure trove of knowledge who is devoting his time after retirement to promoting his community.’
Jeanette Campbell OAM has served the Coolamon community for more than half a century, as a teacher, local historian and volunteer.
Ms Campbell is passionate about her community and the environment and has been the driving force behind numerous Tidy Town entries, Clean Up Australia Day activities and in the development of the Coolamon Wetlands and Kindra Forest Walking Tracks.
Melvyn Mayer OAM is known as Coolamon’s ‘Mr Music’, volunteering his time for many years at almost every major community event, including Anzac Day and New Year’s Eve.
Mr Mayer has donated his expertise in public address systems and has been an integral part in public events across the shire.
Ms Cooke said the community should be very proud of the three award winners.
“Our communities simply don’t function without passionate people like John, Jeannette and Melvyn,” Ms Cooke said.
“They go above and beyond to serve their communities and it’s a real privilege to be able to recognise them in this way.”
“They are living proof age is just a number and it’s never too late to take an active role in making our communities even better places to live. Thank you all of you for your service.”
John Mohomad said he enjoyed his volunteering work in the community.
“I feel excited about winning this but I didn’t realise I was getting this old!” Mr Mohomad.
“I was a truck driver for 41 years and I’ve always lived in Coolamon and I used to own the Up-To-Date-Store so it’s a bit special to me.”
“We get people from all over the country visiting and it’s great to be able to share a bit of local knowledge with them.”
