A number of locals have received special awards from NSW Member for Murray Helen Dalton to acknowledge their work in the community.
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In Deniliquin again on Wednesday, Mrs Dalton presented a number of Community Recognition Statement awards.
These acknowledge readings Mrs Dalton has made in Parliament through the year to recognise achievements, volunteer work, milestones or honours and awards.
Honoured from the Edward River Council area were Deniliquin High School’s agriculture show team, Blighty Rural Fire Service life members Geoff and Pauline Ford, efforts to restore native wetland species through the Billabong Creek project, Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre, and Deniliquin Rescue Squad - VRA Rescue.
Murray River Council recipients were Noorong farmers Michael and Felicia Chalmers and the groups behind the new Out Of School Hours program at Barham Public School.
While in Deniliquin, Mrs Dalton took time to make a presentation to Chantelle Shevels, who was inducted into the 2025 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll earlier this year.
More about the Edward River Council CRS recipients is as follows:
Deniliquin High School
I would like to recognise Deniliquin High School for their outstanding success at the 2025 NSW Schools Merino Wether Challenge.
Their Year 11 Agriculture students were named both best team and champion school - an incredible achievement among 58 schools and 500 students from across the state.
Deni High also secured podium finishes in several individual categories, including third place in carcase and combined value, and took out the award for best fleece overall.
The students cared for and prepared their wethers, focusing on nutrition, handling and commercial value.
Their hard work culminated in a competitive judging day, supported by their teacher Emily Pearn.
It's fantastic to see young people so engaged in hands-on learning and proudly representing their school and region in agriculture.
Geoff and Pauline Ford
Both Geoff and Pauline joined the Blighty Brigade on June 1, 1965 and have since become pillars of strength and leadership in the Mid-Murray Zone.
Geoff is renowned for his calm presence and technical skill on the fireground, serving in key leadership roles including deputy captain, permit officer, secretary, treasurer, and group captain for the Conargo Fire District.
His contributions have extended well beyond Blighty, supporting neighbouring brigades and mentoring younger volunteers.
Pauline has been a quiet but unwavering force – trained as a firefighter and always ready to assist, whether on the frontlines or in support roles.
Together, the Fords have exemplified commitment, courage, and community spirit.
Billabong Creek Project
I would like to commend the collaborative efforts of Conargo Public School and Deniliquin High School students in restoring the Billabong Creek at Conargo.
In December 2024, these students, alongside the Yanco Creek and Tributaries Advisory Council Inc., Deniliquin Kolety Lagoons Landcare group, and the Ricegrowers' Association of Australia, planted 600 native wetland species along a 400m stretch of the creek.
This initiative aims to enhance habitats for native fish and bird species, particularly the eel-tailed catfish.
Such hands-on environmental education not only enriches our natural surroundings, but also instils a sense of stewardship in our youth.
Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre
I would like to recognise Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre for the remarkable milestone of opening their new purpose-built facility in Deniliquin.
Since its inception, Yarkuwa has served as a cultural stronghold for the Wamba Wamba and Perrepa Perrepa peoples - educating the public, preserving language, and advocating for land and water rights.
Their work has included cultural heritage surveys, school programs, and environmental partnerships that connect Country with community.
The new centre stands not only as a physical space but as a symbol of resilience, pride, and continuation.
It will provide a vital place for youth engagement, cultural learning, and the safeguarding of traditional knowledge for generations to come.
May this new centre amplify their voice and ensure their work continues to flourish into the future.
Deniliquin Rescue Squad - VRA Rescue
I recognise and commend the Deniliquin Rescue Squad - VRA Rescue NSW for its unwavering dedication to community safety over the past 50 years.
Established in May 1975 following a tragic drowning, the squad has evolved into a vital component of our emergency response framework.
Its commitment to effective emergency management and community education through initiatives like the annual driver education training mock crash is vital and imparts crucial safety lessons to our youth.
Under the leadership of president Wes Follett, a member of nearly 35 years, the squad maintains a strong partnership with the NSW Police Force, responding to numerous call-outs and ensuring our community's wellbeing and safety.
I congratulate the Deniliquin Rescue Squad on this significant milestone, and thank it for its half-century of exemplary service.
• To read about Mrs Shevels’ honour roll honour awarded in June, click the link below.