By ALANA MITCHELSON
A CATANI couple were named joint winners of the Stan Henwood Award in recognition of more than 100 years of voluntary community service between them.
Beryl and Ron Banbury were presented their award at Cardinia Shire Council’s annual mayor’s volunteer reception dinner on Wednesday 11 May to coincide with National Volunteer Week.
For more than 50 years, they have devoted their time to volunteer at the Catani Football Club.
Beryl was potentially one of the youngest committee members when her father signed her up at age 10, so it was natural for Ron to join his wife at the club when they married in 1962.
The couple have been involved in nearly all aspects of club life as members of the committee as well as having held positions as league delegate, canteen manager, uniform washer, recruiter, match day co-ordinator and coach among other roles throughout the years.
Together they have raised thousands of dollars for the club and were heavily involved in the redevelopment of its facilities.
Both are life members, with Ron receiving the honour in 1984 and Beryl in 1993.
“The couple have become so intertwined with the club that it is now a way of life. They still spend up to four nights a week at the club taking on any manner of tasks and socialising with all those involved – no matter their age,“ Mayor Jodie Owen said.
“Ron and Beryl are role models for the Catani community, and without people like them, Catani Football Club would not be what it is today. They live and breathe Catani and embody club loyalty. Congratulations to them both.”
She said the event was important because volunteers usually go unrewarded for their efforts.
“Volunteers do what they do because it’s their passion and they love it. They don’t do it because they expect praise or thanks,” Ms Owen said.
“But this event is our chance to give thanks for the contribution that the many volunteers in Cardinia Shire make to our diverse and thriving community. Our shire would not be the great place it is without their volunteering spirit.”
Orange Sky Laundry Services south-east manager Steve Winterton, was a guest speaker during the volunteer reception. He shared his experiences of having introduced a free laundry service to cater for the ever-growing need of homeless people.
The event recognises the dedication of more than 250 volunteers from a range of organisations within Cardinia Shire each year.
