The Eurobodalla celebrated its local heroes on Friday, May 25, with Lindsay Boyton winning the title of “Local Hero of the Year”.
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Heavily involved in the Eurobodalla District Show Society and the Moruya Showground Management Committee, nominations for the award described Mr Boyton as the “go-to man” for everything, from applying for government grants and setting up websites and social media to being handy on the tools and baking the “the best” apple turnovers for fundraising.
In addition to his show society and showground roles, Mr Boyton is treasurer of both the Anglican Church Moruya Parish and the Broulee Mossy Point Community Association and was a devoted carer for his mother in her final years.
Mr Boyton said community is the life blood of our region, and volunteering strengthens the ties holding residents together.
He said anyone thinking of volunteering should jump in: “Everyone is looking for volunteers, and there are lots of ways you can help. You can help the fire service by catering – you don’t have to fight the fires.”
Alison McQueen, who works for the Australian Red Cross in Narooma, agreed.
“We need all of the community to make things go round,” she said.
“There are lots of talented people down here on the south coast – young, old, parents, single, whattever it is, just get involved. If we want to make change then it has to happen together and not on our own.”
Worried about finding the time? Women in Business secretary – and local hero nominee – Megan Garrett said the best approach was to make like Nike.
“Just do it – don’t hesitate. You can always fit it in.”
Fellow finalists for the award were Surf Beach’s Jacki Harding, for her years of active community involvement and fundraising, and Sue Barford for her work as chair of the River of Art Festival from 2010 to 2017.
The award was judged by a panel comprising Deputy Mayor Anthony Mayne and two independent community members.