Disabilities Volunteer Is Australian Capital Territory's Local Hero

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26th November 2009, 12:00am - Views: 808





People Feature Department Of Immigration And Citizenship 1 image


MEDIA RELEASE


107.09

25 November 2009

Disabilities volunteer is Australian Capital Territory’s Local

Hero


The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) tonight congratulated disabilities

volunteer, Julie Grehan, for being named Australian Capital Territory’s Local Hero in the

lead-up to the 2010 Australian of the Year Awards.


DIAC is once again proud to sponsor Australia’s Local Hero Award and to celebrate the

extraordinary work of ordinary Australians who make their local community a better place.

Next year is the 50th anniversary of the Australian of the Year Awards.


Ms Grehan, from Higgins, received the award for her tireless dedication to supporting

people with disabilities during the past 29 years.


“She is an outstanding citizen who inspires us with the passion she has for this country

and its people,” a DIAC spokesman said.


“Suffering debilitating injuries in a car accident herself nine years ago merely

strengthened her determination to help people with disabilities.”


Ms Grehan established Daryl’s Den, a community craft and social group for people with a

disability which provides an opportunity for members to interact and build self-confidence.


“Australia’s Local Hero Award acknowledges dedicated citizens such as Ms Grehan who

work tirelessly to make the lives of those around them that little bit better,” the spokesman

said.


“Our Local Heroes are extraordinary individuals whose passion and energy strengthen

our communities and encapsulate what it means to be Australian.”


The national Local Hero Award recipient will be announced on 25 January 2010 in

Canberra.



Media Enquiries: DIAC - National Communications 02 6264 2244


Australian of the Year Awards & National Australia Day Council Media Enquiries:

Nicole Browne 02 9954 7677 or 0414 673 762






AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY’S LOCAL HERO


Julie Grehan

Higgins

Disabilities volunteer


For the last 29 years Julie Grehan has worked tirelessly to support people with

disabilities. Even a car accident nine years ago which left her unable to work full time did

not deter her from helping others. Instead she set up Daryl’s Den, a craft club for people

with disabilities. The club provides a valuable opportunity for those who are often isolated

to socialise and accomplish something that is both meaningful and enjoyable. For the

many people who join in activities ranging from painting and cooking to computing and

woodcarving, it builds self-esteem, confidence and a sense of purpose. Through the club,

Ms Grehan has selflessly volunteered her time to enrich the lives of those with disabilities. 

Her love and devotion for those who have come to depend on Daryl’s Den is

unmistakable.







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