The Pride of Workmanship awards acknowledge an employee or community member who displays outstanding qualities in terms of approach, attitude, dedication and commitment.

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This year there were three recipients of Vocational Awards.

Kerry Kilpatrick from Lemon Tree Post and Lotteries received the award for displaying dedication to her business, and going above and beyond for her local community.

Doctor Laetitia Pienaar from Bay Medical Group, Salamander was recognised for her pride in her work, dedication and care to her patients, and always going the extra mile for them and their families.

Doctor Joel Wenitong from Nelson Plaza Clinic received his award for showing dedication and commitment to his role, and for establishing ‘Guurumal’, a clinic in Nelson Bay offering free access to medical health services for the youth of Port Stephens.

There were also five recipients of Community Awards.

Sharon Blunt was honoured for her dedication in volunteering at the Tomaree neighbourhood Centre for the past twelve years, and for serving as a member of the Lions Club of Soldiers Point for thirteen years.

Maureen Philpott received an award for her commitment to various community support roles, including 23 years volunteering in the SES.

Irene Jones was recognised for her volunteering roles with EcoNetwork, the Mambo Wanda Wetlands Community Group, Landcare and Ngioka Horticulture Centre, National Parks and Nelson Bay Civic Pride, and as a weekly driver of women to cancer treatment in Newcastle.

Margaret Wilkinson received the honour for her volunteering and leadership roles in Nelson Bay Civic Pride, Landcare, and Christmas Bush Club.

Cheryl Moss was celebrated for her volunteering work at Nelson Bay Tennis Club, where she has served as Secretary for the past eleven years, and also for contributing to the development of the tennis centre and promoting skills throughout the community.

Board Directors Leah Anderson and Jason Moss returned to the podium this year as Masters Of Ceremonies after a successful event in 2023.

Together Leah and Jason are the club’s joint Directors for Vocational and Youth Portfolios.

Leah has been a member of the Rotary Club of Salamander Bay for around fifteen years, and Jason a member for around five years.

Leah received a Pride of Workmanship Award from the Rotary Club of Camden back in 1996, while Jason was awarded one by the Rotary Club of Salamander Bay in 2020, for both his long term work at Bunnings Salamander and his commitment to volunteering in the community.

By Marian SAMPSON