Earlier this month 106 women were recognised in the 2015 Hidden Treasures Roll which celebrates the valuable volunteer work that women do within regional and remote communities throughout rural NSW.
Seven of the recipients hail from Forbes and include Nikki Patten, Narelle Shaw, Maree Yapp, Peg Clifton, Julie Herridge, Sue Uphill and Heather Mann. Each of these women have devoted their time to improving the lives of others and the local area. Maree Yapp, the Schools Community Centres coordinator, was “surprised and humbled” by the announcement and thought that the letter was to inform her of the success of the women who she had nominated. Maree works with a lot of volunteers on a regular basis through the Forbes North Public School Breakfast program and understands the importance of volunteering.
“It keeps things ticking over in the community. Volunteers get all the little things done which keep programs going to help others” Maree explained.“ Volunteering is not only a financial benefit to the community it is good for your own health. When you help others it makes you feel happy and lowers your stress levels”. Maree is in good company with the other local ladies who have been named on the 2015 Honour Roll and believes that there are others in the community who give much more than her. She, like many others, do not give to the community for recognition
but for a sense of belonging. She is passionate about the community which is evident in the dedication she displays in everything she does.
Maree believes the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll is not only a chance to recognise and celebrate the diversity and important roles women play in their local areas but an opportunity to encourage others to become actively involved in volunteering and contributing to the sustainability of their community.
The Honour Roll was launched in 2010 and these special ladies join more than 700 women who have now been recognised for their generosity and hard work. Forbes Shire Council are planning to pay tribute to these remarkable ladies with a small reception following the next council meeting on the 19th November.