Ayoung Mount Gambier man has been presented with a prestigious Premier’s Community Service Award.
The Lions Club of Mount Gambier nominated Joseph McMahon for the Allan Sloan Young Citizen Community Service Award for his humanitarian work and especially his contribution as a St John volunteer.
In nominating him the club stated, “his resume is remarkable for an 18-year-old who aspires to be the very best he can be in every field of endeavour and helping all others less fortunate along his journey.”
He was joint winner with Bidhya Karki from Adelaide, a refugee who took on many household jobs, translated and worked part-time to support her family after they moved to Australia.
Mr McMahon joined St John Ambulance as a junior cadet about 10 years ago, has received multiple honours and now holds the rank of Event Medic in the senior division.
He has served the community through other organisations and this year took part in the Go Without Challenge to raise funds for Australian Red Cross disaster and major emergency programs.
He also participated in The Push-Up Challenge fundraiser for mental health and suicide awareness.
Mr McMahon could not attend the recent Premier’s Community Service Awards luncheon because of a clash with Year 12 exams, so received his award at the latest Lions Club of Mount Gambier meeting.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to be receiving this award,” Mr McMahon told the meeting.
“I love being a part of my community and have served it in many ways.
“It is our duty as members of our community to contribute in any way we can, no matter how big or small.
“Volunteers form the backbone of our community and without them our communities would remain static and never grow.
“I feel happy knowing that my volunteering has helped someone and made a difference.
“I have developed a passion for health care which has led to my desire to pursue a career in the health field.
“I intend to start my studies at university in 2023 after having a gap year.
“I plan to get a job and continue my volunteering.”
Club President Jill Austin presented him with the Allan Sloan Young Citizen Community Service Award, named in honour of a Lions member who devoted much of his life to community service with a focus on the care and life of children and young people.
