Community members receive awards

The Rotary Club of Umina Beach held a Community Service Awards evening on Wednesday, May 8, and presented awards to two local, community minded people.

Mr Gavin Germain was awarded a Community Service award along with Mr Garry Beitsch.

Mr Germain, of the NSW SES Sydney Northern Region, was nominated by Gosford SES controller Mr Rolf Garda.

Mr Germain joined the SES in early 2010 and has regularly attended training sessions.

In the last 18 months, he stepped up to become deputy team leader, workplace trainer and a general mentor for newer members.

He volunteers in excess of expected weekly training and recently contributed many hours to the SES's inaugural unit camp and upcoming regional rescue competition.

Mr Germain also encourages initiative and change within the unit, especially in regard to equipment, boats and training tools.

Mr Beitsch was nominated by Rotary Club of Umina Beach past president Mr Glen Scorer.

Mr Beitsch is currently the fundraising chairman of Youth Life, which is the fundraising arm of Religious Education Teachers at Brisbane Water Secondary College.

He has been involved with Religious Education Ministries for 18 years and involved in fundraising for Brisbane Water Secondary College for the past 14 years.

He is the associate chair of the local Red Shield Appeal and is particularly involved with the door knock appeal.

This year is his 28th year of involvement with the Red Shield.

Garry is also a member of the Salvation Army Leadership Council and is involved with the Youth Life Op Shop in Umina.

Media Release, 10 May 2013

Geoff Melville, Rotary Club of Umina Beach