“It never felt like hard work, when it’s something you love doing, you just do it.”
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
These are the words of Merriwa’s James Bettington – a community contributor of more than 30 years who was awarded the highest community accolade given in the NSW Government system on Monday.
The hard working community volunteer who is well known for his voice was presented the NSW Community Service Award by State Member for the Upper Hunter George Souris at a special official council ceremony at the Upper Hunter Shire Council.
Known to many as a legend of sound, Mr Bettington was a founding member of the Merriwa Festival of the Fleeces and has been the emcee of the event since.
But that is not the only place you might have heard him as he has been involved in Merriwa’s Carols in the Park, local shows, pony club and many special occasions.
Having provided sound to community events for free for many years and always working behind the scenes to get the job done, Mr Bettington’s contribution has been valued in the shire.
The NSW Community Service Award is a very rare accolade as it is only given to one or two people in an electorate each year.
Mr Souris said in this case the award has been given for James’ lifetime contribution to the community.
After reading about Mr Bettington’s contributions to the community and his intention to retire as the emcee of the Festival of the Fleeces, Mr Souris nominated him for the award.
“This award is the highest community award we have for citizens in NSW.
“It is an important award and it’s always a matter of great pleasure to present it,” Mr Souris said.
“I’m sure James will continue to make his contribution to the community in the future.”
Totally surprised by the award, Mr Bettington said it was such a pleasure to be there and a wonderful honour to receive the award.
He thanked everyone very much, saying it was something that is very special to him and very unexpected.
“What I do is truly a hobby to me.
“The thing I really valued is being in the community and meeting so many people,” he said.
“It has taken me all over the place and grown into a very interesting business.”
Upper Hunter Shire mayor Michael Johnsen congratulated and thanked Mr Bettington on behalf of the community for his hard work and dedication through many hundreds of honorary hours put into the community.
