I recently attended the Hornsby Community Heroes awards sponsored by Mars Wrigley, and was proud to be part of the judging panel. It was a chance to recognise the volunteers who quietly make a real difference across our community.
These awards shine a light on people who rarely seek attention. They are putting out the cones before anyone else arrives, getting up at 5am to set up, and stepping in without hesitation when something needs to be done.
One of this year’s winners was Ross Anderson from West Pennant Hills was also recognised for his long standing contribution to local sport. Over 50 years with the West Pennant Hills Cherrybrook Cricket Club, he has helped shape the club into what it is today. He has supported grassroots programs like Kanga Cricket, helping generations of young players get involved.
Ross has also played a major role in growing women’s participation in the game. Since 1995, more than 1,300 women have joined the club, which is now one of the largest community based girls cricket programs in the country.
Pauline Wong from the NSW SES Hornsby Unit was also recognised. Over 15 years, Pauline has given an incredible amount of time to supporting the community. In the past year alone, she responded to more than 190 storm incidents, often working through the night, before returning to her day job as a high school mathematics teacher. She also contributed more than 350 hours to training and mentoring new volunteers, helping build a stronger and more capable team.
It was great to see a local business with strong ties to the area giving back in such a meaningful way, and recognising the people who help make Hornsby the community it is today.
