Last Sunday I hosted the 2011 Aspley Achiever Awards at the Aspley Bowls Club. I started these awards last year to recognise the invaluable contribution volunteers make to our local community. The awards are presented across a number of categories and are selected by an independent panel, with an overall winner from these categories named 'Aspley Achiever of the Year'. I would like to congratulate all the finalists on their fine work - it was fantastic to meet so many new faces on the day, and also to give special recognition to those I have had the pleasure of knowing for some time.

Bald Hills resident Brian Rice was named Aspley Achiever of the Year, and the State Member's Award for Volunteering Excellence (which I select from the entire pool of finalists) went to Margaret Lawrie from Carseldine. Brian is a wonderful asset to our local community and his volunteer work is extensive. He works tirelessly as Area Coordinator for the Bald Hills Neighbourhood Watch Group and also volunteers his time to support older persons and people with disabilities. This recognition for Brian's outstanding volunteer work is richly deserved. Similarly, Margaret is a delight to know and an active person who mas made an extraordinary contribution to her community over many years. She was President of the National Seniors Aspley Branch for five years, has been involved with Meals on Wheels for ten years and also worked at a Red Cross Society Store.

Once again, I congratulate all the finalists and extend a big thank you to the panel members: Mrs Saleena Ham, Mr Philip Lilliebridge and Senior Sergeant Scott McQueen (Carseldine Police).

Neighbourhood/Local Citizenship Award: Brian Rice

Education/School Community Award: Kirk Patrinos

Contribution to Older Persons Award: Jack Carroll

Environment and Wellbeing Award: Von Pascoe

Community and Business Partnership Award: Gary Mole

Youth Development Award: Bob Clifford

Aspley Young Achiever Award: Hayleigh Dawson

State Member's Award for Volunteering Excellence: Margaret Lawrie

Aspley Achiever of the Year: Brian Rice

 From Left: Senior Seregeant Scott McQueen, Phil Lilliebridge, Tracy, Brian Rice and 2010 Aspley Achiever of the Year, Phyllis Miller

Margaret Lawrie and Tracy