Red Cross Limestone Coast has recently recognised four of their long-standing volunteers with their 10-year service medals.

The awards were presented by Australian Red Cross Vice Patron Libby Furner who recognised the amazing work the recipients perform in the local community in her speech.

Cheryle Kestle was formerly a driver in the Red Cross transport program but now has a lead role in mentoring vulnerable youth in the driver mentor program assisting them to get their probationary driver’s licence.

Raelene Monger, a former much valued staff member, continues to volunteer in the Red Cross TeleCross Program and supports other program areas as required.

John Ditcham was also formerly a transport driver in the transport program but now volunteers in the TeleCross program making welfare calls each morning to vulnerable people.

Red Cross Limestone Coast regional services manager David Walshaw said a separate ceremony recognised Jennifer Dobie from the Mount Gambier branch of the Bendigo Community Bank.

“For the last 10 years Jennifer has come into the Mount Gambier office before work and phoned vulnerable people to check on their well-being with a welfare call,” Mr Walshaw said.

“She said she loves the work and loves hearing the stories people tell her.

“We have a great partnership with Bendigo Bank as several other staff also attend at our office before work for TeleCross calling.

“To all of our Red Cross volunteers who are out there at this difficult time providing much needed services to our community, we salute you and thank you for your service, nothing beats stronger than the heart of a volunteer.”