Today we had the privilege of celebrating nine incredible individuals who were recognised with Civic Awards for their outstanding service to our community.
These recipients are the unsung heroes – the dedicated volunteers, quiet achievers, and community champions who generously give their time and energy to make a difference behind the scenes.
Friends, whānau and supporters gathered in the Council Chambers to honour each awardee as Mayor Tania Gibson presented their Civic Awards in recognition of their remarkable contributions. Congratulations to all – your efforts do not go unnoticed, and we thank you.
The 2025 recipients are:
Paul Buchanan for outstanding services to the West Coast Sports Awards, Cobden Kohinoor Rugby League, Blackball Workingmen's Club, and Runanga Workingmen's Club.
William (Bill) Cashin for outstanding Community Service, maintaining Greymouth Community spaces, and assisting with the West Coast Wilderness Trail.
Rob and Ailsa Harrison for outstanding services to the Greymouth Golf Club, Cobden Aromahana Sanctuary and Recreation Area (CASRA), and Makura Croquet Club.
Margaret Sadler for outstanding services to Friends of Waiuta and Greymouth SPCA.
Brent Woolhouse for outstanding services to Greymouth Rotary and the West Coast Vintage Car Club.
Tony & Margaret Woollett for outstanding services to Greymouth Marist Rugby Football Club, West Coast Rugby Union, Paroa Tennis Club, Greymouth Anglican Parish, Blind Low Vision NZ, and Child Cancer Foundation.
Adam Gilshnan, unfortunately, was unable to attend today, and we
will be making arrangements to present Adam on another occasion in the near future.
A special acknowledgement was also made to long-serving Civic Awards Committee member John Sturgeon, who has been part of the committee since its inception in 1996, including many years as Chair. John has now chosen to step down, and the Council thanked him for his outstanding contribution and dedication, presenting him with a small token of appreciation.
Watch the full presentation here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhZ8e0T8y60
Front row: Margaret Sadler, Mayor Tania Gibson, Margaret Woollett
Back row: William (Bill) Cashin, Paul Buchanan, Brent Woolhouse, Alisa Harrison and Rob Harrison
