Community Gems celebrated

Community members in the Bass electorate have been recognised for showing their true community colours and making hearts sing.

The Community Gem initiative, now in its fourth year, had an overwhelming response when the call out for nominations went out in December. Over 120 beautiful stories were received of people whose generosity of spirit, selflessness, service and commitment exemplified the best of us.

All receiving a personalised letter of appreciation.

From Secret Santas to volunteering at schools, clubs and community organisations, fundraising for sick kids to Barre ballet for seniors - all creating genuine connections and support for their respective communities.

Brooke Smith, Hannah Burton, Robin Elijah, Amy Hodson, Brent James, Trish Thick, Diana Campbell, Barb Birchmore, Wendy Crellin, Kathy and Allen Smith, Amy Wing and Tamara Jackson and Lily Ho were outstanding nominations with each receiving a certificate, gift hamper or certificate, appreciating their outstanding contributions to the community.

Supporting all things local the hampers were made up of produce, product and vouchers.

The Community Gem series will feature on the Jordan Crugnale Facebook page each Sunday to celebrate extraordinary individuals who make our community shine.

Five people from Bass Coast were recipients of the awards.

"These remarkable individuals are truly exquisite Community Gems - all heart, all community and we extend our immense gratitude for their invaluable contributions across so many areas of our lives and places we participate in," Member for Bass, Jordan Crugnale said.

"They all have an energy, enthusiasm and a spring in their community service step that is valued, appreciated and contagious.

"Thank you also to all those that took the time to write about and nominate all 120 gems - it is such a wonderful way to learn about, thank and celebrate their contributions."

2023 Bass Coast Community Gems

Diana Campbell: A local treasure with a kaleidoscopic flair oozing kindness that lights hearts and spirits in Inverloch, Diana is described as a "spinning cartwheel of continued passionate advocacy - the arts, environment, social justice, inclusion and more."

Diana has volunteered at the Inverloch Community Hub for over 17 years, sponsoring and supporting the Art Award at the local primary school, and was the inaugurate of the Anderson Inlet 'Icicles', passionate for the care and preservation of our precious land and seascape.

Wendy Crellin: Barre Ballet Bringing Joy to Golden Hearts.

Wendy leads these classes for the magnificent golden cohort at the Rescue Station in Wonthaggi, leading each class with grace, beautify and humility.

"Under her guidance, we are improving our health, maintaining good balance and standing taller," participants said.

Amy Hodson: A young inspiration making waves.

At only eleven years old, Amy has demonstrated courage, tenacity, and a passion for community service.

A passion for swimming and coupled with the support of the community has made and continues to make a real difference in the lives of other sick kids and their families.

Amy has again embarked on the Starlight Foundation Super Swim Challenge raising funds for sick kids with a goal of swimming 30 km by the end of February. Learn more and you can support Amy at: superswim.org.au/amyhodson

Brooke Smith: Nominated for Bass Coast's Treasured 'Secret Santa' which she initiated three years ago. In 2023, with the support of many generous locals, Brooke distributed over 200 gifts to elderly residents across Bass Coast aged care homes. The presents are tailored to the interests and hobbies of each person because she takes the time to ask.

Described as "a treasure, connects people beautifully, is so thoughtful and exemplifies the essence and spirit of Christmas".

Trish Thick: A Driving Force for Bass Valley Friends of the RSL and a tireless advocate for the Bass Valley Friends of the RSL, she is instrumental in coordinating Remembrance Day, Anzac Day, applying for grants to upgrade the Avenue of Honour, adding plaques to the Grantville memorial and so much more.

"We are so grateful to know Trish and we cherish every moment and every step we walk beside her."