15th Annual St George Community Awards a Roaring Success!

Member for Oatley, Mark Coure MP, has once again recognised the outstanding contributions of local volunteers, organisations, and businesses at the 15th Annual St George Community Awards.

Held at Mortdale RSL on Friday, 31 October, the event brought together community members from across the St George region to celebrate those who go above and beyond to make our area a better place to live.

The ceremony was attended by over 300 guests and was entertained with performances from the St George Brass Band and a keynote speech from Little Wings, an outstanding organisation which provides a crucial aerial transport lifeline for sick kids in rural and regional NSW.

“When I launched the St George Community Awards 15 years ago, I wanted to create a platform to recognise our unsung heroes, the people who work tirelessly behind the scenes for the benefit of others,” Mr Coure said.

“Fifteen years on, these awards have grown into one of the proudest traditions in our community. Each year, we see an incredible number of nominations, reflecting the strong spirit of service and compassion that defines the St George area.”

Award categories in 2025 included:

• Individual Volunteer Achievement
• Senior Volunteer Achievement
• Sharyn Andersen-Cullis Environmental Achievement
• Business Achievement
• Community Group Achievement
• Multicultural Communities Achievement
• Sporting Achievement
• Youth Achievement

Mr Coure said it was heartening to see so many residents come together to celebrate local achievements.

“It’s always inspiring to hear the stories of our award recipients, their dedication, generosity, and passion are what make St George such a special place,” he said.

“This year we also paid tribute to several individuals who have made lifelong contributions to our community, as well as young people who are stepping up as the next generation of local leaders.”

“I also want to thank the talented musicians from the St George Brass Band, the amazing volunteers at Little Wings, our outstanding MC for the evening, Vanessa Gauci, CEO of Autism Community Network, and the staff at Mortdale RSL who made the night such a success.

“The St George Community Awards continue to highlight the very best of who we are, a caring, vibrant, and united community. I want to congratulate all of our nominees and winners and thank everyone who continues to support this wonderful event year after year.”

A full list of recipients can be found below:

Business Achievement Award:

• Sandra and Tony - Peakhurst Growers - A proud family business, Peakhurst Growers has been revitalised under the ownership of Sandra and Tony Chaanine since November 2022. With over 30 years of experience in the fruit industry, the Chaanine family has transformed the store while maintaining its trusted local team and community spirit.

• Coffee Lounge Lugarno - A family-owned café, known for its welcoming atmosphere, quality Toby Estate coffee and a popular breakfast and lunch menu. It has become a cherished local spot for great food and community connection.

• Frederico, owner and founder of Roma Capoccia Riverwood - Federico, founder of Roma Capoccia, brings authentic Italian cuisine to the heart of Riverwood, combining tradition, quality and a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant has become a cherished local spot for everything from quick bites to family meals.

• Jason Tarraf, owner and founder of Mount Lewis Pizzeria, South Hurstville - Jason Tarraf brings authentic Lebanese flavours to Sydney, combining family traditions and culinary passion. The pizzeria celebrates heritage and community through its vibrant and flavourful dishes.

Senior Volunteer Award

• Maris Cummins - An award-winning craftsperson, recognised at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and in Good Weekend, Maris hosts monthly morning teas at St Joseph’s Oatley, fostering friendship and community.

• George Polidano - A dedicated and passionate member of Bayside Men’s Shed, George goes above and beyond to lend a hand. He is highly skilled with workshop machinery and known as the reliable “go-to” person.

• John Colombo, Member at Bayside Men’s Shed - John is admired for his tireless work ethic and generosity. He handcrafts intricate wooden toys and dollhouse furniture, with his skill and kindness enriching both the Shed and its charitable work.

• Robyn Ingersole, Committee Chairman at St Mark’s Preschool Kindergarten Inc. - Robyn has chaired St Mark’s Preschool Committee for over ten years, providing strong leadership and guidance through major reviews and continuing her lifelong commitment to education and service.

• Bijinder Dugal, Director at the AASHA Australia Foundation - With over 20 years of volunteer service, Bijinder supports culturally and linguistically diverse communities across Greater Sydney. She mentors volunteers and assists vulnerable women and families.

• Pat Middlemas, Treasurer at Oatley101 Society of Artists - Since October 2024, Pat has transformed Oatley101’s financial and membership systems, improving transparency and accessibility. Her leadership and professionalism have strengthened the Society and supported successful community art exhibitions.

• Dr Tony Gallagher, Volunteer English Teacher at CASS - For 15 years, Tony has volunteered as an English teacher with CASS, preparing lessons and supporting diverse community members. At 83, his dedication continues to inspire and assist newcomers’ integration.

• Amy Liang, Volunteer in the CASS Mental Health Program - Since 2023, Amy has shown exceptional commitment to CASS’s mental health program at Hurstville Library. Her innovative ideas and dedication have improved community awareness and made a lasting impact.

• Jean Shui Ping Ha, Volunteer in CASS St George Activity Group - Jean has shown outstanding leadership, managing events and administration with dedication. Her kindness and commitment have greatly strengthened the group’s community spirit.

• Paul Kin-Ping Lai, Volunteer & Board Member at CASS - Paul leads the Riverwood Activity Group and supports local seniors through transport and community activities. His kindness and dedication inspire many across the St George community.

• Ross Bryant, Treasurer & Trustee at Penshurst RSL Sub-Branch - Ross has served as Treasurer and Trustee for 12 years. His financial expertise and commitment have been invaluable to the sub-branch and the wider RSL community.

• Jeanette Green, Foundation Member at the Lamrock Committee of St George Hospital - Jeanette has played key roles in fundraising, including organising bed races and craft stalls. Her ongoing dedication has been vital to the committee’s success and support of St George Hospital.

• Subhash Joshi, Volunteer at RAIN - Subhash serves with a positive attitude, always looking for ways to improve and support the team. His cheerful dedication and proactive approach make him a valued and dependable volunteer.

• Jayshree Sathe, Volunteer at RAIN - Jayshree serves with a warm smile and a generous heart, delighting seniors with her delicious home-cooked meals. Her kindness and caring nature make her a cherished member of the community.

• Homai Billmoria, Volunteer at RAIN - Homai is the friendly face of the Thursday seniors’ group, managing all administrative tasks with care. Her warm greetings make everyone feel welcome at the centre.

• Adele Ryan, Vice President of the Kogarah Historical Society - Adele volunteers regularly at Carss Cottage Museum and coordinates ‘Mondays at the Museum’ events. Her calm leadership and excellent communication skills make her an invaluable asset to the Society.

• Nadia McMaster, Member at the Zonta Club of Botany Bay - Nadia has actively supported Zonta’s service projects and fundraising efforts. She serves on the Young Women in Leadership Award panel and remains a committed and insightful member.

• Kate Lynch, Committee Member at Australian Independent Retirees - Kate fosters a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere at branch meetings and has supported the branch’s success for over 25 years.

• Rodney Lynch, Committee Member at Australian Independent Retirees - Rodney has served in key committee roles since 2000, contributing to the branch’s governance and community engagement alongside his wife, Kate.

Sporting Achievement Awards

• Peta-Lee Duchenne-Crow, Coach and Umpire at Connells Point Netball Club - Peta-Lee achieved her National C Badge through dedication and passion, supporting her club as both coach and umpire and inspiring others through her leadership and commitment to netball.

• Adelina Ilkovski, Umpire at Connells Point Netball Club - Another dedicated representative at Connells Point Netball Club, Adelina, achieved her National C Badge through hard work. She umpires multiple games each week to support her club and ensure teams can continue to play and thrive.

• Haley Smith, Coach at Connells Point Netball Club - Haley has coached her team for five years, leading them to a Grand Final win this season. She also manages club uniforms and equipment for over 300 players with dedication and care.

• Peter Jones, President at Oatley Football Club - Peter’s leadership has strengthened Oatley Football Club into an inclusive, community-focused organisation. His commitment to mentoring young players and supporting families continues to inspire teamwork.
• Donna Lane, Committee Member at St George Little Athletics - Donna has dedicated countless hours to preparing weekly programs and recording results, ensuring the smooth running of events and the continued success of St George Little Athletics.

• Lucy Lindner, Canteen Manager at St George Little Athletics - Lucy dedicates her Fridays to preparing, serving and managing the canteen with warmth and enthusiasm, ensuring members are well-fed and the facilities run smoothly each week.

• Samantha Latanis, Life Member at St George Little Athletics - Sam has devoted over 25 years to the club, preparing clinics, coaching athletes and managing teams. Her tireless volunteer work ensures members develop skills and the centre continues to thrive.

• Natasha Clayton, President of the Penshurst Panthers Junior AFL Club - Natasha has led the club since 2019, supporting players, volunteers, umpires and families. Her leadership, positivity and commitment have fostered a welcoming, inclusive, and thriving community.

• Belinda West, Events Coordinator at Forest Rangers FC - Belinda is a lifelong club member who organises major events and supports players and families on game days. Her tireless dedication behind the scenes fosters lasting community spirit.

Sharyn Andersen-Cullis Environmental Achievement Award

• Kim Wagstaff, President at Oatley Flora & Fauna Conservation Society - Kim has led the Society with vision and inclusivity, delivering education, conservation events and advocacy. His efforts, including planting 2,500 native trees in 2024, have strengthened local environmental awareness and action.

• Akshara Potu, Student at Bandana Cultural School, Penshurst - At just ten years old, Akshara leads clean-up drives and awareness campaigns that promote recycling, waste reduction and energy conservation. Her passion and initiative inspire her peers and the wider community to take action for a sustainable future.

• Jen Hofmeier and team at Mulga Road Book Shop - Jen runs Mulga Road Book Shop, saving tons of books from landfill and recycling proceeds to support local charities and environmental initiatives. Her leadership inspires volunteers and promotes sustainability across the St George community.

Individual Volunteer Achievement Award

• Sue Vit, Branch President at St Vincent de Paul Society (St George Branch) - Sue is a compassionate and courageous community leader who supports those experiencing homelessness, often responding personally outside work hours. Her empathy and dedication exemplify the mission of Vinnies.

• Jennifer Attard, Assistant Scout Leader at 1st Oatley Bay Sea Scouts - Jennifer has over 35 years in Scouting, leading the youth through major events, adventurous activities and community involvement, including Oatley ANZAC Day Ceremonies and local fundraisers.

• Kerrie Billinghurst, Volunteer at Riverwood Anglican Church - Kerrie has dedicated over 25 years to running Sunday School, Kids’ Club and holiday programs, while supporting adults with disabilities and caring for vulnerable community members with kindness and selflessness.

• John Rodger, Deputy Unit Commander at NSW State Emergency Service (SES) - John has over a decade of service in disaster response, mentoring volunteers, promoting preparedness and supporting others as a community transport driver and blood donor.

• Alana Singleton, Co-Founder & Director of Emerge & See NSW - After 18 years as a NSW Police Officer, Alana founded Emerge & See, supporting thousands of Emergency Service workers with mental health education, peer support and community outreach.

• Mike Warner, President of the Lions Club of Lugarno - Mike is a tireless volunteer, dedicating over 50 hours a week to community service through hands-on work and leadership in the welfare and not-for-profit sector.

• Max Britton, Secretary at Oatley RSL Sub-Branch - Max supports veterans and war widows through welfare assistance and community initiatives. He also volunteers his time with the Crateful Group and Marine Rescue.

• Dorrette Williams, Volunteer at the Lions Club of Lugarno - Dorrette co-founded the Lugarno Lions Breakfast Club, serving meals to schoolchildren twice a week. She also distributes food to those in need at Riverwood Community Centre.

• Ayla Herskind, Founder & President of Sensory Minds Inclusion Centre - Ayla is a behavioural therapist and advocate for neurodivergent children. She founded Sensory Minds to support families through education, support groups, and calm sensory spaces at community events.

• Lisa Pinner, Volunteer at Lugarno Public School P&C Association - Lisa is a dedicated P&C volunteer, known for her creative problem-solving and hands-on support at the uniform shop and school events. Her innovation and energy uplift the whole school community.

• Janice Teitzel, Volunteer at Lugarno Public School P&C Association - Janice is a generous and reliable volunteer who supports the school through canteen, uniform shop and event work, always with a smile and a community-first mindset.

• Jo Galea, Volunteer at Lugarno Public School P&C Association - A long-time canteen volunteer, Jo reliably steps in to cover extra shifts and supports countless school events. Her dedication has been vital to sustaining services for Lugarno students.

• Karen Tam - Karen provides legal outreach and education to disadvantaged and non-English speaking communities, supporting access to justice, welfare, and elder protection.

• Alexandra Delis, Instructor at Pontian Association of NSW - Alexandra is their longest-serving instructor. She teaches traditional Pontian dance to youth and coordinates performance costumes across the St George community.

• Dr Vasilis Adrahtas, Volunteer at AHEPA NSW - Dr Adrahtas is an academic and cultural leader who lectures at Western Sydney University and UNSW. He co-founded Unity in Philia, promoting cultural understanding within the St George community.

• Lynda Robinson, Board Member & Team Leader at the Lions Club of Oatley - Lynda has volunteered for over 40 years, leading programs from food relief and seniors’ lunches to drought, flood and Drop-In Centre support at Narwee Salvation Army.

• Lieutenant First Class Jake Bailey from the Riverwood Hornets, Australian Cadet Corps - With 13 years of service and 1,100 volunteer hours, Jake is a band leader and mentor, recognised internationally and with the Australian Cadet Corps Community Service Medal and Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award.

• Ronan Soussa, Ambassador & Volunteer, Autism Community Network - You may recognise Ronan from Love on the Spectrum. He also volunteers as an ACN Ambassador and hosts Autistic Adults Social Clubs, promoting inclusion and community support.

• Christopher McLeod, Volunteer, Autism Community Network - An original ACN volunteer since 2011, Christopher has led social clubs, movie days and online groups. His dedication and warmth continue to strengthen ACN’s supportive community for adults with autism.

• Paul Nash, Principal, Oatley West Public School - With over 60 years in education, including 17 as Principal at Oatley West Public School, Paul fosters an inclusive, high-achieving community and champions student wellbeing and the arts.

Youth Achievement Award

• Izabella Momi, Team Leader at NSW State Emergency Service (SES) - Izabella is a dedicated volunteer committed to supporting vulnerable people in her community. She assists at-risk youth through her work at Treehouse and leads emergency response efforts with the Hurstville SES.

• Enoch Chi Nagi Lim, volunteer and achievements in medical research - Enoch recently helped play a key role in supporting the Australasian Medical Services Coalition (AMSC) to help raise vital funds for the Concord Kidney Centre.

• Evie O’Connor, Student at St Joseph’s Primary School, Oatley - Inspired by a Mini Vinnies Conference on homelessness, Evie recently led her school’s Vinnies Sit Out Night, creating activities and care packs for those in need.

• Dylan Camenzuli, Volunteer at The Crateful Group - Dylan works seven days a week collecting and sorting food donations with The Crateful Group. He also supports the Lugarno Lions, contributing his time and effort to community events.

• Tamajit Chakraborty, Student at Bandana Cultural School - Tamajit is a talented and dedicated young achiever. Excelling in STEM, performing arts, visual arts and gymnastics. He also volunteers in his community and confidently shares his knowledge through public speaking.

• Chinta Nandan Saisimha Reddy, Student at Bandana Cultural School - Nandan is a Year 8 student who actively helps organise events, encourages peer participation and leads initiatives that benefit his school and wider community.

• Dai-An Song, Student Volunteer at the Overseas Community Affairs Council - Dai-An is a dedicated volunteer who supports non-English speakers, mentors youth and contributes to cultural and community programs.

• Cadet Benjamin Chandra, from the Riverwood Hornets, Australian Cadet Corps - Benjamin has contributed over 120 hours through band performances, parades and festivals. He is also a talented clarinet player and mentor to junior members.

• Drum Major Derrick Leung, from the Riverwood Hornets, Australian Cadet Corps - Derrick is a Drum Major and Snare Drummer who leads the marching band, mentors peers and supports numerous community events and parades.

• Lance Corporal Jasper Kent, from the Riverwood Hornets, Australian Cadet Corps - Jasper has over four years of service with the Riverwood Hornets. He actively participates in parades, festivals and generously serves his time at community events.

• Sergeant Jayden Banh from the Riverwood Hornets, Australian Cadet Corps - Jayden has over seven years of service with the Riverwood Hornets. He is a skilled snare drummer and dedicated instructor who has volunteered over 250 hours in festivals and community events.

• Corporal Nathan Banh from the Riverwood Hornets, Australian Cadet Corps - Nathan is a talented saxophonist and dedicated instructor who has volunteered 170+ hours in community events, parades and festivals.

Community Group Achievement Award

• Oatley RSL Sub-Branch, represented by Club President, Clay Marks - The Oatley RSL Sub-Branch has revitalised its mission to support veterans and the wider community, delivering ANZAC Day events of unprecedented scale and engagement.

• SHARE SMR Inc., represented by Adrian Prakash - SHARE is a not-for-profit organisation that has supported community health since 1985. Under Adrian Prakash’s leadership, SHARE delivers flexible and affordable exercise programs for people over 50.

• Georges River Life Care Volunteer Team - The Georges River Life Care Volunteer Team supports the community through Life Care programs, including food hamper distribution, community meals and family assistance.

• Georges Estate Home Care, represented by Executive Director Sarah Riach, Kyla Hawkins and Victoria Stanford - Georges Estate Home Care helps community members remain safely at home, providing compassionate support through dedicated carers. Their services give clients comfort and families peace of mind.

• Mortdale Scottish Country Dancing Group, represented by Alan Holm - The Mortdale Scottish Country Dancing Group has brought fun, social connection and energetic dance to the St George community for over 20 years. Open to all ages and backgrounds, the group promotes mental well-being and community spirit.

• Riverwood Hornets, Australian Cadet Corps, represented by Captain Chris Bailey - The Riverwood Hornets, under the leadership of Captain Chris Bailey, provide young people in the St George community with opportunities to develop discipline, integrity and teamwork. The unit actively contributes to the community through Anzac services, food drives, Clean Up Australia Day and fundraising with the Lugarno Lions Club.

• Autism Community Network - The Autism Community Network (ACN) is an Australian non-profit supporting autistic individuals and their families across Sydney and regional NSW. ACN fosters connection and growth, helping participants overcome isolation and lead full, rewarding lives.

Multicultural Communities Award

• Brotherhood of Chalkidiki Aristoteles of NSW Inc., represented by Costa Dantos and committee members - Led by Costa Dantos and 11 committee members, the group has grown in membership and youth participation since 1962. It provides social connection and support to Sydney’s Greek community, especially older members.

• The Resourceful Australian Indian Network (RAIN) - RAIN supports seniors from the Indian Sub-Continent with culturally specific home care, aged care packages and community programs that promote independence and wellbeing.

• Advance Diversity Services (ADS), represented by Antoinette Chow - ADS is a non-profit organisation supporting multicultural communities in Southeastern Sydney. It promotes inclusion and equality through community, aged care, disability and settlement services.

• Elie Akouri from The Cedars of Lebanon Folkloric Group - Founded in 1977, The Cedars of Lebanon Folkloric, led by Elie Akouri, celebrates Lebanese Australian culture through dance and community engagement.

• Dr Tanima Banerjee from Bandana Cultural School - Dr Banerjee, a scientist-turned-artist, fosters multicultural harmony through arts and education, leading programs that promote connection across Australia.

• AHEPA NSW Inc Seniors Group (The Kafeneion), represented by Dr Panayiotis Diamadis - The Kafeneion offers seniors a welcoming space to socialise and enjoy activities, fostering connection and supporting mental wellbeing in the community.

• Punkaj Vij, Director of AASHA Australia Foundation - Punkaj Vij is a community leader supporting older Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse communities. He champions social hubs and health programs that foster inclusion and connection across Sydney.

ENDS