Local Red Cross members have been recognised for many years of community service at the 13th Annual Limestone Coast Red Cross Zone Conference this week.

Members from Millicent, Naracoorte, Southend and Mount Gambier branches gathered at the Mount Gambier Bowls Club for the presentations.

Red Cross South Australian director Jai O’Toole said it was an opportunity to connect with Red Cross members and reflect on the group’s last 12 months.

“It was also a chance to celebrate some of the great outcomes the organisation has achieved and give out awards to some of our important Red Cross people,” he said.

“It is about trying to pull our members together that are across the region, and it is an opportunity to share and reflect on the work we undertake.

“I love getting out to our regions and hearing more about the work that members do on the ground.”

Former Red Cross Limestone Coast and Riverland regional services manager David Walshaw was presented with a Distinguished Staff Award for “providing exceptional service beyond the call of duty, embracing diversity and inclusion in the course of his responsibilities and, encouraging and supporting staff and volunteers”.

Ten year long service medals were given out to Red Cross Mount Gambier Service Group volunteer Robyn Downs and Red Cross Naracoorte branch volunteer Daphne Burford for their dedicated service to the group.

Meanwhile, Red Cross Vice Patron Libby Furner OAM and Red Cross Mount Gambier Service Group volunteer Lynette Hirth earned 40 year long service medals for their tireless contribution to the organisation since 1982.

Guest Speakers at the event were Four Reasons Why founder and community development officer Trudi Shelton and OG Roberts Dealer Principal Bryce Roberts.