Residents win community awards

Two Peninsula residents have been recognised for their commitment and dedication to the local community at this year's Gosford City Australia Day Community Awards.

Ms Annette Karton of Woy Woy and Ms Maria Schilt of Umina were presented with their awards at a special ceremony at Laycock St Theatre on January 24.

Ms Karton received an award in the Volunteer of the Year category for her work with the Rotary Club of Woy Woy, Woy Woy Public School and on the NSW Health Community Participation Program.

Fellow Rotary Club of Woy Woy member Ms Vicki de Carle said Ms Karton was an inspirational role model for all the community.

"Annette is a vital member of the Rotary Club of Woy Woy, who quietly goes about volunteering on the Peninsula in an unassuming way," Ms de Carle said.

"We all knew Annette did lots of wonderful things around Woy Woy, but I was dumbfounded at the breadth of her volunteering.

"She is truly inspirational.

"The Rotary Club of Woy Woy is incredibly proud of Annette and we treasure her as a club member."

Volunteering for more than 35 years, Ms Karton is legally blind and suffers a debilitating disease known as myasthemia gravis which is similar to multiple sclerosis.

Ms Karton said she finds immense joy in helping other people and seeing the impact she has on lending a hand.

"I began volunteering as a young girl after following in the footsteps of my parents," Ms Karton said.

"My time as a volunteer continued into my school years and I have not stopped since.

"I find it so enjoyable to see other people happy by the care and commitment you show them.

"It is an honour and privilege to receive this award especially for doing something in which I love and enjoy so much."

Meanwhile, Ms Schilt, 76, has achieved a community award in the seniors category for her volunteering and community duties.

Some of the highlights of Ms Schilt's community involvement include working at the Olympic and Para Olympic Games as a team driver, World Masters Games timekeeper, member of the Pink Ladies, volunteer at Laycock St Theatre, wheelchair sports volunteer, fundraiser for MS, Cancer Council, diabetes and Red Nose Day and minding her grandchildren.

Press release, 2 Feb 2010 Alison Hood, Gosford Council Press release, 31 Jan 2010 Vicki de Carle, Rotary Club of Woy Woy