A cause for celebration: Mark Coure's Community Recognition Morning Tea

A total of 32 individuals, businesses and community groups from across the St George region and beyond were officially recognised at a Community Recognition Morning Tea, hosted by Member for Oatley, Mark Coure MP, last week.

Held quarterly, the event celebrates those who have been acknowledged through a community recognition statement (CRS).

These Statements are brief speeches made by Members of Parliament (MPs) in the NSW Legislative Assembly to publicly acknowledge outstanding contributions, achievements, or milestones within their local community.

“Community Recognition Statements are one of the best parts of my job. They shine the light on our quiet achievers and the unsung heroes here in our local area,” Mr Coure said.

“Best of all, they are recorded in Hansard, which is the official transcript of Parliament. That means your contribution will still be on the record 5, 50 or even 100 years from now.”

This latest event, held at Club Rivers in Riverwood, was the best attended yet, with more than 90 guests present, including recipients and their families.

“This is an event we host four times a year now and it has quickly grown to be one of my favourites. We truly have some of the best of the best from the St George area and beyond, all in the one room,” Mr Coure said.

“Each recipient also has the chance to say a few words and share the incredible work they’re doing. It’s a reminder of just how lucky we are to live in such a generous and community-minded part of Sydney.”

“This event is really just about saying thank you. Thank you to those who put others first and who shape our community and state for the better. Their names and efforts now live on in the official record of the NSW Parliament.”

If you know an individual, small business or community group that is deserving of recognition in the local area, please reach out with further details to oatley@parliament.nsw.gov.au.

Among those recognised were:

• Linda Pritchard from Knit2gether – Creating handmade goods for those in need.
• Jubilee Community Services – Supporting the community through volunteer service.
• St George Basketball – Celebrating grassroots sport and a big presentation day.
• Jill Reich – Advocating for young children through Learning Links.
• Club Rivers – 25 years supporting charity, sport and sustainability.
• Smile Sanctuary – Opening a new dental clinic serving the community.
• Nellie Douehi – Named 2025 Local Woman of the Year.
• Lions Club of Lugarno – Raising funds for children’s cancer and mobility.
• Jennifer Parry – Championing access and inclusion for people with disabilities.
• The Greek Herald – Winning 2025 Multicultural Publication of the Year.
• Sing Australia St George – Celebrating 13 years of musical community service.
• The late Peter De Meur – Honoured for service with Oatley Lions.
• Pam Brown from SSMRF – Contributions to medical research.
• Oatley RSL Sub-Branch – Delivering another fantastic ANZAC Day service.
• Multicultural Communities Council – Supporting diverse communities.
• Little Legs Foundation – Breaking a world record for children’s cancer research funding.
• Irene Hatzipetros – Leading Football St George from 2019–2025.
• The Foster Family – Starring in Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical.
• Autism Community Network – Hosting a gala and raising autism awareness.
• SHARE Incorporated – Supporting seniors through local programs.
• The Family Co. – Assisting those facing family and domestic violence.
• Ethnic Communities' Council – Celebrating 50 years of multicultural advocacy.
• Tony & Carol Allen – Recognised for environmental volunteer work.
• Oz Arab Media – Hosting a major multicultural gala celebration.
• Oatley Flora & Fauna Society – Winning a top environmental award.
• Peakhurst Swimming Club – Leading a successful annual general meeting.
• St George Men's Shed – Using skills to give back to the community.
• Georges River Debating Team – Visiting Parliament to develop debating skills.
• Georges River Life Care – Raising $80,000 through their Sleeping Rough initiative.
• Metro Assist – Hosting a fantastic Refugee Week Gala.
• Cathy Nisbet – Many years of service at Shopfront Arts Co-Op.
• Bart Brunton – Named a finalist in the 2025 Training Awards.

ENDS

MEDIA: Will Delezio | 0435 567 667 | will.delezio@parliament.nsw.gov.au