Local community heroes were recognised by Member for Hornsby Matt Kean MP at a ceremony late last year.
President of the Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Women’s Shelter Sallianne McClelland was announced as Hornsby Woman of the Year for the Hornsby electorate. Sallianne dedicates her time and energy to helping women who need it most. She has been the champion of the Apron Fundraiser for the last three years which has raised thousands of dollars for the shelter. In 2017 the project attracted 60 artists who designed and created over 100 original aprons which raised over $15,000 for the organisation.
Mr Kean said, “When it came to choosing Woman of the Year, there was no question Sallianne Clelland was top of the list.” “Sallianne works day and night to assist women in crisis, who have nowhere else to turn. There are many women who owe their lives to the Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Women’s Shelter and Sallianne for her hard work raising money and awareness,” he said.
Also recognised on the night were with the NSW Government Community Service Award was Brian Engert and Roy and Clare Ashpole.
If you live in Berowra, it is likely you have met Brian Engert. There is hardly a community organisation in the area he hasn’t given his time towards. He first joined Scouts in 1963 and was recently recognised for 45 years of service to the organisation. He is also a valued member of Berowra Lions Club and Berowra Musical Society.
“Brian has dedicated his life to giving back to the community and it is time we recognised him for his service,” said Mr Kean. Roy and Clare Ashpole have contributed greatly to the community. Roy has been involved in the Hornsby RSL Soccer Club for the last 25 years. He has been coach, manager, committee member and willing worker in many capacities. His wife Clare is a vital member and advocate for the Thornleigh Netball Club. She first started to play for the club at 11 years of age and promised to ‘give back’, which she has done serving on the committee for over 20 years. “
There are a whole bunch of kids in Hornsby who have a love of netball or soccer, thanks to Clare and Roy,” said Mr Kean.
The awards were handed out at the Community Social event held by Mr Kean at Hotel Pennant Hills just before Christmas 2017.
Article appeared in The Bush Telegraph Weekly on Janaury 25th
