Australia Day Award recognises volunteer’s extra special deliveries
Published 23 January 2019
Filling the hearts and tummies of people in need for more than 35 years has been a labour of love for Deception Bay Meals on Wheels President Des Dewar, who has been named as the recipient of the Moreton Bay Regional Council 2019 Australia Day Award for Volunteer of the Year.
Des has been a familiar and comforting face to thousands of people in his community over the years through his work with the local branch of Meals on Wheels.
Des goes above and beyond for his customers, checking up on them if they’ve been unwell, posting letters and even changing light bulbs.
Moreton Bay Regional Council Mayor Allan Sutherland said the kindness that Des showed to his customers made their lives just that little bit brighter.
“Meals on Wheels serves some of the most vulnerable people in our community and volunteers like Des provide not only meals, but a friendly face and a sympathetic ear,” Cr Sutherland said.
“I commend Des for his efforts and congratulate him on winning the Australia Day Award for Volunteer of the Year.”
Councillor for Division 2 Peter Flannery said Des’ selflessness was inspiring.
“On behalf of the Deception Bay community, I would like to thank Des for the kindness and comfort he has offered our most vulnerable residents,” Cr Flannery said.
Des was presented with his award at a special function for the region’s Australia Day Award recipients on Thursday, 17 January at Clear Mountain Lodge.
Other Australia Day Award recipients for Moreton Bay
Citizen of the Year - Elisha Wright, who has been instrumental as a disability advocate in the region through collaboration with Moreton Bay Regional Council on its Disability Access and Inclusion Plan.
Sports Award - Mitchell James, an accomplished tennis player who has held the #2 ranking in Australian Singles for six years and currently holds the #1 ranking for Australian Doubles.
Youth Sports Award - Fraser Vaughan, a young BMX racer who has secured some incredible results in recent years both nationally and internationally.
Environment Award - Husband and wife team, Richard and Carole Green, who have made significant contributions to the region’s environment including the restoration and preservation of John Oxley Reserve.
Arts and Culture Award - Carmel Bond, who has made a valuable contribution to Dayboro and the greater region by preserving the town’s rich history.