Country Education Foundation bestows award on Bingara stalwart

- Submitted by Clarissa Barwick

Each year Country Education Foundation (CEF) Australia invite applications for the Katie Walker Outstanding Service Award. The award is an honour bestowed to a volunteer for their extraordinary efforts. We are delighted that CEF Gwydir committee member, Robyn Phillips, has been announced as the 2023 Katie Walker Award winner.

Robyn has been involved with the Gwydir Branch of CEF for the past 10 years and has undertaken the role of Secretary since 2019, although her contributions to the committee and the community as a whole go far above and beyond the requirements of her executive role.

Robyn was a key player in the committee adopting the CEF brand and she has been instrumental in promoting the purpose and benefits of the Country Education Foundation for regional and remote students. Her efforts in encouraging and attracting local school leavers to apply for CEF funding has been fundamental to the success of the organisation.

Robyn’s devotion, commitment and enthusiasm for sourcing additional funding for Gwydir CEF has greatly contributed to it’s sustainability. This affirmation is supported by her involvement in organising fundraising events including the performance of Oliver Twist, and ‘Discover Gwydir Car Rally’, a fundraising event involving participants travelling throughout Gwydir Shire completing various tasks at key locations. Unfortunately, this event was cancelled at the last minute due to Covid 19 restrictions, however, will certainly remain on our calendar as a future fundraiser.

Robyn’s passion for helping the youth of our area to achieve their educational and career aspirations is inspirational and this was demonstrated in recent times when one of our recipients required urgent accommodation. Without hesitation Robyn offered to take her in until campus accommodation was obtained, in addition she assisted with finding tutoring options and transport. Robyn’s support for the recipients, and to other committee members, is no less than extraordinary. She understands the value of investing in the futures of our youth to ensure they have every opportunity to reach their potential.

Congratulations Robyn!