On Thursday, November 1, members of the NSW Government’s Cabinet were in Ulladulla to reward community members for their contribution to the region.

South Coast MP Shelley Hancock presented awards to the winners during a meeting attended by more than 100 people from various emergency services, community groups and businesses at the Ulladulla Civic Centre.

Long-term school bus safety campaigner Glenda Staniford, of Termeil, was awarded the woman of the year and a community service award.

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Along with others, Mrs Staniford established the B.U.S (Belt Up for Safety) Action Group following a fatal school bus crash on the Princes Highway near Wandandian in 2001. 

She has since taken the campaign nationally, lobbying various state governments and the Commonwealth for change.

Mrs Staniford said last year, on June 26, 2017, will always be memorable as the NSW Government announced it would roll out the installation of seatbelts on school buses to all rural students.

“It was about children having a voice and fighting for their safety,” Mrs Staniford said.

“It’s nice to be recognised, but it’s not what my aim was.”

Nowra’s Patricia Smith was named grandparent of the year for her tireless efforts as a volunteer at East Nowra Public School. 

Mrs Smith said she was shocked when she found out about the award in the morning. She praised the teachers for their nomination.

“I wasn’t expecting it. I don’t think I do anything out of the ordinary,” she said.

Mrs Smith said a bonus of being a grandparent was experience. 

“We have patience for grandchildren because we’ve been through it with our children,” she said.

“As long as we keep up with the times [to connect with younger people].”

Friends of Milton Library’s Alison Pakes was selected for a community service award and Alan Pendleton was recognised for his 50 years of service as a justice of the peace.