Forty years of service recognised

BEVERLY Horwood certainly meets the criteria of the Denis Bateman Award.

The Award, established in 2010, is presented by the Ballarat Arts Foundation honouring an individual who has made a long-term commitment to not just the arts community but also to the Ballarat community at large in a volunteer capacity.

For 40 years Mrs Horwood’s two major volunteer interest have revolved around the swimming pool and musical theatre.

Her involvement in swimming began in 1985 when her daughter joined UniSwim Ballarat.

She has been publicity officer, chief timekeeper and District Secretary for Midlands District Amateur Swimming Association and is the recipient of a 20 years’ service award from Uniswim Ballarat and two Swimming Victoria Service Medals for 20 and 30 years.

Volunteer work with Lyric Theatre in Ballarat began in 1980 when Mrs Horwood’s 14-year-old son Craig, joined the company as a young performer.

Over the decades Mrs Horwood has been a stalwart of the organisation as committee member, secretary, costume maker, administrator, tea and biscuit provider and supporter of young talent.

Gordon Williamson, former Ballarat Art Foundation board member and honorary member of Rotary Club of Ballarat South, said Ms Horwood is known for her skill at keeping the engine room humming in the world of administration.

“Her attention to detail, communication skills and hard work always made a significant difference to the outcomes of local amateur organisations [she was involved in],” he said.

Mrs Horwood describes her ongoing work with both organisations as that of a behind the scenes person.

“I don’t want to be in the spotlight,” she said. “It’s something I like doing and if you are going to do a job you should do it properly.”

Ballarat Arts Foundation was the vision of Denis Bateman, Rotary Club of Ballarat South’s past President.

Seed funding was provided in 2000, under the auspice of the Club, to establish the Foundation and each year since the Club has continued its support.

The Ballarat Arts Foundation works to create and sustain a vibrant artistic community, encouraging and developing the aspirations and talents of emerging artists from all disciplines who have lived, worked or studied in Ballarat.