WE’D like to introduce you to Dave Sams.

Dave was there from the beginning at Salamander Bay Recycling Centre and the adjoining Men’s shed.

In 2017, Dave was awarded the Port Stephens Medal for his work in the community which includes Waste as Art, Port Stephens Suicide Prevention Network, Tomaree Youth Community Action and the Solace Garden.

Dave is also a recipient of a Keep Australia Beautiful Award having been nominated by two different Tidy Towns Committees.

Dave volunteers with the Port Stephens Suicide Prevention Network and understands firsthand the destruction which suicide can leave behind after he and his family lost a son.

Engaging with youth is key to stopping young people from being depressed and potentially suiciding, so Dave engages with Tomaree Youth Community Action (TYCA) and Snack’N’Rap making sure there are things for our youth to do and places where they can connect.

TYCA programs revolve around sport, music and fun, empowering youth to fulfil their potential.

The Solace Park at Boat Harbour and the annual walk recognising the impact of suicide is also something that our community may not have without the inspiration and quiet efforts of Dave.

Dave Sams told News Of The Area, “I enjoy doing what I do, highlights include meeting Prime Minister John Howard.”

“It’s the positive side of things when everything comes together and the wonderful people that you meet that makes it worthwhile.”

“It’s great to be able to take ideas across different groups and seeing community collaboration,” he said.

Dave’s work for Port Stephens and those who need to be included isn’t stopping anytime soon.

He is currently working on the Anna Bay Recreation area and the Labyrinth at Boat Harbour.

 

By Marian SAMPSON