Flood of thanks

By Emma Schenk
TWO Hampton Park residents have been honoured for their volunteer efforts during the Casey floods, both receiving a prestigious volunteer pin and award.
Federal Holt MP Anthony Byrne presented Michele Halsall and Warren Calder with their awards at the Cairns Road Recreation Reserve on Monday and thanked them for their community spirit at a local volunteer appreciation event last week.
Mrs Halsell created the Casey Floods Facebook page which allowed people to instantaneously communicate and share valuable emergency and recovery information. Mr Calder also spared a thought for those in need and working to assist residents to remove debris from their flood-affected properties.
“To receive the award was a great thrill and a very special moment for both of us,” said Mr Calder.
“To be honoured and recognised for your efforts makes it all worthwhile,” he said.
The semi-retired handyman has a strong community spirit and for 35 years he has been working to make his community a better place.
He was named the Casey Citizen of the Year in 2000, is involved in more than 20 community groups, and is proud to see his 10-year-old grandson following in his footsteps.
“He comes with me when I help out and his first priority is to fix the problems,” Mr Calder said.
“It’s a fantastic attitude to have, especially for someone so young.”
With National Volunteer Week coming up on the 9-15 May, Mr Calder encourages everyone to get involved and volunteer.
“It’s unfortunate that there’s such a lack of volunteers,” he said.
“Volunteering gives you the satisfaction of helping others which really is a great feeling.”