Published on 26 October 2022
West Wimmera Shire Council nominated Mrs Austin for the award in appreciation of the significant contribution she has provided to the community over her lifetime.
Dawn is an active and highly respected member of the Kaniva community, sharing her time and experience with a range of local organisations. For more than 30 years, Dawn has provided care and support for the West Wimmera community as a first responder with Ambulance Victoria.
As a volunteer and later an Ambulance Community Officer, Dawn has treated many friends, families and locals in Kaniva in their time of need, and also contributed to local fundraising efforts. Dawn is an active and longstanding volunteer with the Kaniva Golf Club and the Sandsmere CFA for over 30 years.
Dawn continues to provide home help for the older community members as a Personal Care Worker for the West Wimmera Shire Council in the Kaniva district as well as working at the residential aged care cottages in Kaniva for the West Wimmera Health Service.
The Victorian Senior of the Year Awards are presented annually each October as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival. These significant awards recognise the volunteer work and contributions to community life by older Victorians.