The announcement on Monday that dedicated Southend community volunteer Joan Lucas was the 2022 Wattle Range Council Senior of the Year was greeted with delight and warm applause.
Her name was read out at the Seniors Month finale at the Millicent War Memorial Civic and Arts Centre.
Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll detailed the extensive contribution of the recipient to such organisations as the Millicent Lioness Club, Beachport Pony Club, Millicent Probus Club, Endurance Riding and the Lions Club of Wattle Range Lioness.
“Joan brings people together and is always helping out,” Mayor Noll said.
“During her time working at Millicent High School, she did much for the students and the school community.
“Joan has given a lifetime of service to this community and is a community treasure.”
As one example of her dedication, Mayor Noll said the 2022 Senior of the Year had given more than 50 years of service to the Beachport Pony Club.
In reply, Ms Lucas said she was pleased and honoured to receive the accolade and acknowledged the support of friends and her family.
She recalled a valuable life lesson from the time she had attended a fundraising concert at the former Millicent Institute in the 1950s.
“The visiting blind entertainer Harold Raymond gave a concert,” Ms Lucas said.
“At the end of the concert, I was called up on stage to receive an award for being the highest fundraiser.
“On the way home, my father reminded me that many others had helped me to get on stage as the highest fundraiser.
“It is the same today.
“A number of people have supported me.”
Among the 90-strong gathering to welcome the announcement were members of the Lucas family.
First given out in 1991, the Senior of the Year recognises the worthy and older citizens of this community.
To be eligible, a person must be at least 60 years of age.
The award coincides each year with Seniors Month which is held around the state in October.
It is organised and sponsored locally by Wattle Range Council with over 20 events on the 2022 calendar.
Companies, groups and individuals had also lent their support with at least one event staged on every week day.
