Pat named as State winner

Mary Mac's Place volunteer and steering committee member Ms Pat Slattery has been named as the state winner in this year's NSW Seniors Week Achievement Awards for her community service and volunteering.

Ms Slattery of Ettalong was presented with her award at a special ceremony attended by the Minister for Ageing Mr Paul Lynch in Sydney on March 21.

As well as volunteering with Mary Mac's Place for more than 11 years and at St Vincent de Paul's for nine years, Ms Slattery has also travelled around the world to help out in AIDS clinics and orphanages including the Dominican Republic, Brazil and South Africa.

Her volunteer work with St Vincent de Paul includes visiting disadvantaged individuals and families while supporting them with a variety of needs including food, clothing, counselling and finance.

Member for Gosford Ms Marie Andrews, along with other Peninsula community members, congratulated Ms Slattery on her achievements.

"It's important that as our population ages, our seniors remain active and engaged in our communities," Ms Andrews said.

"Pat was also locally recognised for receiving the award at my Annual Seniors Concert at Ettalong and was congratulated by the large crowd in attendance."

Mary Mac's Place project coordinator Ms Robyn Schacht described Ms Slattery as a dedicated, tireless worker who readily volunteers for work outside normal duties.

"Pat is highly regarded as an open, approachable person, completely non-judgemental," Ms Schacht said.

"Pat is a caring, compassionate advocate for the disadvantaged and marginalised and is widely regarded as an outstanding, positive and inspirational role model both within Mary Mac's and in the community.

"She is a lady of great intelligence, wisdom, grace and humility; a person of intrinsic kindness, decency and integrity.

"Her contribution to so many people, young and old is simply outstanding.

"Pat possesses energy, motivation and a strong personal commitment to advocate for the underprivileged.

"Throughout her daily life and activities, Pat maintains a friendly, positive attitude.

"She is a fine role model for her peers and a true inspiration to our older generation."

Press release, 29 Mar 2010 Robyn Schacht, Mary Mac's Place Press release, 25 Mar 2010 Marie Andrews, Member for Gosford