Jane is Rotary’s top citizen

Following years of droughts, government reforms and then COVID, Jane was part of a group of locals who identified that mental health in our communities was at an all-time low.

So, with the assistance of the Berrigan Shire Council, the Collaborative was formed.

Jane spoke of the incredible work already accomplished by the group, including the more than 40 participants who have completed a Mental Health First Aid course.

At the completion of her presentation, Jane was thanked by Rotary president Ray Hehir for her enlightening speech.

Ray then proceeded to announce there was another reason she had been invited to attend the dinner, and that was to be announced as the Finley Rotary Club’s Citizen of Distinction for 2024.

President elect Chris Kelly had the pleasure of reading the briefing of why Jane so justly deserved this recognition.

“Jane is a busy business and family woman; however, this has not deterred her from being involved in many organisations and responsible for creating others,” it read.

“She has been associated with Finley Work Space, is an active member of the Finley Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture Inc, and was president of Biralee Pre-School for over nine years, during which time she worked tirelessly to help organise Dancing with the Stars to raise more than $20,000 per year for five years.

“As Biralee president, she also worked to merge the service with Finley Regional Care to utilise their governance experience and time and ensure continuity of the service.”

Further achievements include being an active parent at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School and at Finley High School, where she is a member of the P&C.

She is also a board member of South West Music, a member of the Berrigan Shire Local Environment Plan Review Advisory Committee and involved with the Finley Football and Netball Club, where she is a member and a volunteer supporting her children in their sporting activities to name a few.

“Jane walks and works with her community groups and, through hard work and results, has grown to be one of Finley’s most respected and valued community members.” the citation read.

Jane was very humble in accepting the award in front of her very proud mother and sister.