More than 50 years of service is a huge contribution for only three people to make to their community.
That’s the amount of time spent as members of the East Gippsland Rail Trail committee of management by Andrew Sharpe (19 years), John Nelson (19 years) and Michael Oxer (16 years).
They were presented with certificates of recognition by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) last Friday at the Nicholson Station Grounds on the rail trail.
The whole committee of management was also recognised for its outstanding contribution to the local community.
“What an incredible contribution from these dedicated volunteers to their community,” DELWP’s regional manager land and built environments, Carole Macmillan, said.
“We value our Committees of Management enormously as custodians of local public assets like rail trails, halls and recreation reserves – they put in so much time, effort and expertise into making sure these facilities are maintained and available for all to use and enjoy.
“The East Gippsland Rail Trail stretches for almost 100 kilometres from Bairnsdale to Orbost through beautiful countryside, farmland and forests, passing the former railway stations and bridges of the old railway line to Orbost.
“It’s popular with cyclists, walkers and horse riders and requires a lot of input from all committee members to meet the numerous user group requirements and satisfy community needs.
“This committee has worked hard to maintain and improve the rail trail over many years: seeking funding, extending the trail, installing shelters, signs and information, and promoting the rail trail experience.
“All terrific achievements for a small committee.
“We’re all so lucky to have people like this in our communities and they all thoroughly deserve the recognition through this program.”
IMAGE: East Gippsland Rail Trail committee of management members Janice Preston, Alastair Campbell, John Nelson, Andrew Sharpe and Michael Oxer were recognised for their outstanding service over many years. (PS)
