SOME of Wyndham’s most distinguished residents and organisations were acknowledged on Friday night at the 2007 Wyndham Awards.
Citizen of the Year Christina MacGregor was recognised for her business leadership and community philanthropy, especially regarding the Wyndham Lodge Community Nursing Home.
Mambourin Business Services received the Disability Access Award for its many years helping people with disabilities gain supported employment.
The organisation manages a home gardening contract with the city, Mambourin Cafe and Sensory Gardens and Melton’s Abbey Pty.
Gavin MacDonald won the Wyndham Safety Award for establishing a “fit to drive” program, challenging young people’s perceptions of road safety.
More than 700 year 11 students have participated in the program.
Brian Cowie, winner of the Russell Mark Sports Star Award, has been dedicated to hockey for more than 30 years.
Mr Cowie has won many championships and was selected as a member of the Victorian Masters team, as well as the Werribee Hockey Club Legends Team.
James Kilpatrick was named Young Achiever for his work as a volunteer at Ugandan orphanages.
The 22-year-old has sent more than 200 computers using donated parts to Uganda, and established a program to teach computer skills.
Volunteer of the Year Les Porter has worked with the Salvation Army, WYNDAG, the Peter McCallum Cancer Centre and various local schools, nursing homes and community groups, despite a debilitating car crash 20 years ago.
The Werribee River Association was given the Environment Award for its survey of flora and fauna along the Werribee River in September, and Westbourne Grammar School was recognised for its environmentally sustainable design practices in the construction of its hospitality complex.
