Seniors receive awards

Several Peninsula residents and local residents who have worked on the Peninsula have received awards as part of Seniors Week celebrations.

The awardees were Patrick and Mary Dolan of Woy Woy, Merle Sharpe and Elmo Caust.

Patrick and Mary Dolan were both nominated for the NSW Seniors Week Achievement Award for "outstanding contribution in Community Service and Volunteering for the St John Ambulance.

They both received a certificate in recognition of the nomination.

Merle Sharpe, a member of the Salvation Army corps for 45 years, received a NSW Government Community Service Award.

"Merle is a senior soldier of the Salvation Army and regularly visits residents of Woy Woy Aged Care and Peninsula Aged Care," Member for Gosford Ms Marie Andrews said.

"She is on the Red Shield Appeal committee, is the home league secretary, a recruitment sergeant and a community care worker for public and home visits.

"Merle also assisted in setting up the Meals on Wheels service in Woy Woy back in the 1960's."

Elmo Caust, a retired school teacher who has been a member of the Lions Club since 1967, also received a NSW Government Community Service Award.

"He has held every position available within the club up to Deputy District Governor," Ms Andrews said.

"He gives an enormous amount of his time to the Lions Club as well as helping parents through difficulties with their children.

"For the past 13 years, Elmo has been running car boot sales in Umina for the Lions Club as well as volunteering at nursing homes, helping a number of elderly residents within their own homes and doorknocking for the Salvation Army appeal."

Press release, 10 Apr 2008 Marie Andrews, Member for Gosford