Member for Bega, Dr Michael Holland, recently congratulated the outstanding achievements and community contributions of volunteers Janine Green and Shirley Rixon OAM.
The event follows the unveiling of the 2025 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll, where the Minns Labor Government recognised 80 exceptional regional women volunteers from across New South Wales.
The Hidden Treasures Honour Roll celebrates women whose dedication strengthens their communities through volunteering, leadership and service. From emergency response and wildlife conservation to mentoring, health, sport and the arts, these women make an extraordinary contribution to regional life.
Each recipient is nominated by their peers, friends or volunteer organisation and receives formal recognition through the Honour Roll, a certificate, a letter of acknowledgement and a digital credential celebrating their service.
Dr Holland said Janine Green and Shirley Rixon exemplify the generosity, resilience and community spirit that make the Bega electorate such a special place.
"Janine and Shirley have devoted countless hours to improving the lives of others, asking for nothing in return," Dr Holland said.
"Janine has spent more than 25 years protecting our native wildlife through WIRES, responding to more than 4,100 wildlife rescues and rehabilitation cases. Her leadership, expertise and compassion have supported not only injured animals but also the volunteers and communities who rely on her knowledge, particularly during emergencies such as bushfires."
"As an authorised wildlife rescuer, trainer and emergency response leader, Janine has built the skills and confidence of countless volunteers, ensuring wildlife across the Far South Coast continues to receive the highest standard of care."
Dr Holland also acknowledged Shirley Rixon OAM for her extraordinary commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of others.
"Following her own cardiac rehabilitation, Shirley turned her experience into a lifetime of service by leading the Heart Foundation Walking group in Merimbula for more than 12 years. She has completed more than 500 walks and created a welcoming, inclusive environment where people of all abilities are encouraged to improve their health and confidence."
"Shirley's kindness, encouragement and unwavering commitment have made a lasting difference to countless people recovering from illness or simply looking to lead healthier lives. Her dedication to volunteering over more than six decades, recognised by the award of an OAM in 2022, is truly inspirational."
"The Hidden Treasures Honour Roll shines a light on remarkable women whose quiet dedication often goes unnoticed. Janine and Shirley are wonderful examples of the compassion, generosity and community spirit that make the Bega electorate so strong. It was a privilege to recognise and thank them for their outstanding service."
Since its launch in 2010, the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll has recognised more than 1,300 women from regional, rural and remote New South Wales whose volunteer contributions have strengthened communities across the state.
The Hidden Treasures Honour Roll is coordinated by the NSW Government's Rural Women's Network and supports the Minns Government's commitment to recognising and empowering women across regional New South Wales.
MEDIA:
Lisa Miller | Dr Michael Holland MP Member for Bega | 02 6492 2056
