Two locals have been acknowledged in the Australian Bravery Awards announced today, Thursday 28 March. Mr Paul Francis Jones and Lieutenant Anthony Robert Martin both received a Commendation for Brave Conduct, which is for acts of bravery considered worthy of recognition.
Mr Jones was recognised for his involvement in rescuing a man trapped in a burning car in Kambah on 2 January 2013, while Lieutenant Martin was acknowledged for rescuing a young boy who had fallen over Gibraltar Falls on the afternoon of 7 October 1984.
In total, Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove awarded Australian Bravery Decorations to 101 outstanding Australians who, without thought of personal risk, displayed courage and bravery to protect or defend others.
Everybody needs good neighbours
Each year, ACT Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) celebrates Neighbour Day with a Good Neighbour Award to a resident of the ACT; this year’s recipients are Margaret and Mick Dando from Ainslie.
The award is granted to a nominee for making a positive difference to their neighbourhood; making a special effort towards people around them; offering to assist in practical or special ways; or for volunteering or supporting the local community.
This year, Neighbour Day is on 31 March with the theme of ‘Loneliness: What neighbours can do to create connections’.
Have your say on maternity services
The ACT Government has developed a new Maternity Access Strategy, which will make it easier for Canberra women to learn about and access public maternity services.
Under the proposed model, women will: call one phone number to arrange their first appointment with a midwife; meet a midwife early to talk about public pregnancy and birthing options available in Canberra, as well as their preference and health care needs; and receive local support before, during and after pregnancy.
Expectant mothers, families and the broader Canberra community are invited to have their say on the new strategy.
For more information, visit yoursay.act.gov.au
National Playgroup Week
National Playgroup Week is underway, and families with children from birth to five-years-old are invited to visit their local playgroup to see what’s on offer and take part in free events.
The week, which runs until Saturday 30 March, is run by Playgroup Australia in partnership with State and Territory Playgroup Organisations (STOs) across the country.
“Currently, more than 110,000 families meet for weekly playgroups in halls, neighbourhood centres, churches, private homes and parks throughout the week and on weekends. Playgroups are where friendships are made, toys and ideas shared, and where children’s social and physical development is supported,” says CEO of Playgroup Australia, Fiona May.
“Families from all different backgrounds and walks of life go to playgroup.”
For more information, visit playgroupaustralia.com.au
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