High achieving locals crowned at community awards

THE Rotary Club of Ocean Grove has recognised fantastic and hard-working individuals and businesses on the Bellarine at their annual Community Awards function.

The sixth edition of the annual awards were held at the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club last Tuesday, with Rotary crowning locals in four categories.

Brayden Mellington (Ryman Healthcare Ocean Grove) was awarded the top individual honour for Team Member of the Year and was lauded for his high level of service and willingness to assist residents within the region.

The Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club took home the Volunteer Organisation of the Year for their commitment to emergency response and developing a supportive and caring culture.

Meaghan Vecoli from Ivy Creations in Queenscliff was awarded Apprentice/Trainee of the Year, while Ocean Grove based family run business Coastline Alfresco Pty Ltd won Small Business Excellence of the Year.

Rotary Club of Ocean Grove president Peter Cowburn congratulated all the winners of the awards and those who put forward a nomination.

“The community awards have been conducted for now six years, each year growing in size and importance.

“It is wonderful to be able to support local businesses, volunteers and staff.

“The number of applications was high and they were of a high calibre.

“The awards program provides a great opportunity for our club to engage with the local business community and provides a platform for them to display their individual businesses successes.

“Overall, it’s great to see the total community working together.”

Nominations for the 2024 awards will open in March next year.