Locals honoured

Marg being presented with her award by Deputy Mayor, Jack Kowarzik, at the Hills Hub in Emerald last night on Wednesday 25 October. PICTURE: PAUL BIANCO

The Emerald Village Association (EVA) was delighted to announce the new 2023 Citizen of the Year – Margie Gemmell – at the Hills Hub on Wednesday 25 October.

Margie Gemmell has been an active member of Gemco Players Community Theatre since the early 1980s, performing in many plays, writing and directing the musical content for performances and working behind the scenes in committee roles, front of house and generally putting her hand up to do whatever is necessary to keep the organisation running smoothly.

Margie has also been a member of the PAVE Festival committee, she is active on the committee of the uniting church as well as playing organ there each week.

She has also taught likely thousands of children at Emerald Primary School and in private music lessons.

The Emerald Men’s Shed was awarded the Emerald Group of the Year for 2023 at the presentation night.

Congratulations to Alan Bennett and Tom Connolly and all the blokes who do so much for the local community.

The men’s shed was formed about 15 years ago by Mike Allery and his mates.

Over the years many local organisations have benefited by the work the blokes do in making timber products for them – including primary schools, the Glades, Cardinia Shire, the museum, EDRA, kindergartens, Puffing Billy, EVA, Echo and op shops.