Beris is a true Hidden Treasure

membership last year.

In 2016 she received her 15 years national patrol service award and in 2020 she received her 20 years officiating, trainers and assessors certificates from SLSA.

“I decided in 1996 to train to be a trainer and give instruction on oxygen, defibrillator and radio,” she said.

“I felt I wanted to give something back to the organisation – my children got so much out of Nippers.”

While she did some paid work for the Terrigal club office for 16 years, most of her involvement over the years has been voluntary.

“I retired from the office when I turned 70 but then became Director of Finance, which voluntary position I still hold,” she said.

Fourteen volunteers of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Gosford Unit have been recognised for their combined 120 years of service.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch joined SES Deputy Commissioner Daniel Austin at a ceremony to present National Medals and Long Service Awards recently.

“Our fantastic and hardworking volunteers have a long and proud history of selflessly supporting the Central Coast community through storms, floods and other emergencies,” Crouch said.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said women like Meldrum play an important role in community development and making rural NSW a great place to live.

“It is so important we honour their contributions to ensure that voluntary work is valued and respected,” he said.

“Beris is a well-known community member in Terrigal.

“Day after day, week after week and year after year, Beris is down at the surf club volunteering her time as a trainer, official, first aider and almost every other role you can think of.

“She truly embodies a local hidden treasure.”

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said more than 1,000 women from across rural and regional NSW have been enshrined on the honour roll since 2010, each nominated by a member of theirlocal community.

“Women play an important role in community development and making rural NSW a great place to live and it is important we honour their contributions to ensure that voluntary work is valued and respected,” she said.

“Whether it’s supporting individuals or groups within their communities through