On January 26 every year Australians come together to celebrate our nation, it’s rich history, the original forbearers of our people and to reward those who quietly contribute to our communities and society.
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It is a time when all communities in cities, towns, villages and remote areas across Australia come together to recognise the very essence of being Australian and give back to those that have tirelessly contributed. This day is not about the specific date but rather a time to reflect on the history past, future, our culture and honouring those who continue to give back to our community.
The village of Millthorpe is thriving thanks to the many volunteers who have contributed to this vibrant village. But two stand out in the crowd and received awards of excellence at the Blayney Council Australia Day Awards Ceremony.
The mayor of Blayney Council, Scott Ferguson, with Australia Day Ambassador, Scott McGregor, presented awards to John Mason and Jo Jarrett for their outstanding contributions to Millthorpe.
John Mason, former President of the Millthorpe Village Committee, received the Australian Citizen of the Year Award for his large contribution of more than 20 years.
Jo Jarrett, Principal of Millthorpe Public School, pulled together the 150 sesquicentenary celebrations over two days at the school and received recognition with the Australia Day Award for outstanding contribution to a local event.
“I am deeply touched to receive this award and thank all the people in Millthorpe who have been involved with volunteering to bring our village to what it is today,” said Mason.
“We have all achieved so much over the years from a sleepy village to now a popular and beautiful destination.
“Over the years we have worked hard to achieve many things for the village but one of our greatest achievements which was instigated with Laurie Williams and Randall Edwards is the recently announced Stop on Request at Millthorpe Railway Station which is opening early 2019.
“Marnie and I would like to thank the people of Millthorpe and the Blayney Council for their recognition, I am truly humbled.” In receiving her award, Jo Jarrett thanked the teachers and parents involved with helping to produce the 150th anniversary celebrations. “It truly was a wonderful event and something that will now go down in history for the future generations to see in 50 and more years to come.’
