What is a place without its community? Last week Hume council held its Resident Recognition Awards to celebrate people in the municipality doing their bit to help others and make Hume a better place.
Hume mayor Carly Moore said it was “fantastic” to see people come together to celebrate the work of “amazing residents” at the ceremony this week.
“It’s really important that we acknowledge all that they do to contribute to the Hume community,” Cr Moore said.
Sunbury resident Natasha Child said she “wasn’t looking for recognition” when she received an award for her service to the town.
Ms Child was recognised for her more than a decade-long service as a committee member for the popular SunFest, and her commitment to local sport and young people as a member of the Sunbury Softball Association and group leader of First Sunbury Scout Group.
“I feel strongly about volunteering in my local community,” Ms Child said.
“I can give up my time to help the youth of Sunbury, in particular. Scouts has been a passion of mine for eight years, and prior to that I was with SunFest helping out.
“It’s exhausting but absolutely rewarding.”
She believes Sunbury can only thrive “off the back of so many people volunteering”, and hoped her award would inspire young people to lend a hand.
“[It’s about] instilling a sense of community in them and a sense of service to the community as well,” Ms Child said.
Satinder Chawla from Craigieburn received a certificate of appreciation from council for his participation in the development of the I Love Hume campaign.
The project featured community members sharing stories about living in Hume and what they cherished about it. Mr Chawla said the community had given him “so much”.
The actor and sportsperson has been active in Hume for some time, including serving as a multicultural ambassador to organisations such as the AFL, participating in charity work and founding the Landmark Community Sports Club.
During the pandemic, Mr Chawla has made films in multiple languages, including Punjabi, Hindi and English, to raise awareness about the virus.
“I try to spread love,” Mr Chawla said.
The 65-year-old grandfather said he hopes to inspire others to be generous.
“I’m now 65… the youngers love my attitude, I am still working for community… wherever they need me, I am always here,” he said.
When asked if his family would be proud of him for being recognised by council, he said “100 per cent”.
Find the full list of recipients here: bit.ly/3Or8Wur.
Elsie Lange
