Locals who dedicate their lives to serving their communities are invaluable treasures who bring immense value and positive change to the places they call home. These remarkable individuals devote their time, energy and resources selflessly to uplift those around them and create a better society for all. Last week I attended the Blue Mountains Local Citizen of the Year Awards, a night dedicated to honour and celebrate those who go above and beyond for their community. The evening was a profound reminder of the lengths those in our community go to to enrich the Blue Mountains and make it a better place.

I have witnessed firsthand how their dedication and commitment inspires others to get involved and take action. Leading by example, these locals motivate and empower their communities to join forces in a collective effort that amplifies their impact. They have created spaces and opportunities for community members to come together, share experiences and work towards a common goal. This work extends beyond the immediate Blue Mountains community. They have become advocates for social issues, driving conversations and advocating for the rights and wellbeing of those who may otherwise go unheard.

Morna Colbran was awarded Citizen of the Year. Morna's career has long been dedicated to the service of others and particularly the most vulnerable members of our community. From helping those battling addiction and financial hardship to providing support to those affected by disasters, Morna has been a pillar of strength for countless individuals in our community.

Under Morna's leadership at Winmalee Neighbourhood Centre, a wide range of vital services have been offered. A few highlights include emergency relief programs like "Support with Dignity"; the Community Food Cupboard and the Fresh Food Program; the community shop, which stocks everything from books to homewares, clothes and children's toys at affordable prices; no-interest loans provided to those in the community who find themselves unable to afford essential goods and services; Work Development Orders; counselling; and Women Returning to Employment Network [WREN] workshops and art classes. Morna's holistic approach, which addresses the physical, mental and spiritual needs of individuals, has created a more caring and resilient community. Her generosity extends beyond her organisation, as she selflessly shares her expertise and resources with the people of the Blue Mountains. Many in the community who have received Morna's help will never know that it came from her. I thank her for her tireless efforts.

The Senior Citizen of the Year, among many wonderful nominees, was awarded to Ray Wiles. Since arriving in the Blue Mountains in 2002, Ray has immersed himself in our extensive network of community and charity organisations, making a remarkable difference to our community. As a proud Rotarian for over 35 years, he has held numerous offices, including president. He has organised countless fundraisers, barbecues and events, from supporting the local public school's "Breakfast Club" to working towards the global eradication of polio.

Ray's passion and generosity has enriched the lives of many. His work extends beyond the Rotary Club, with some notable examples including creating the "Presidents Walk", a series of bricks paid for by the community at the Blue Mountains Hospital; fundraising for the Greystanes Disability Services; and, amongst others, co‑chairing the Upper Mountains Red Shield Appeal. Befitting of his service, in 2016 Ray was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community. Today I further honour his service and thank him for his long‑term commitment to the Blue Mountains.

Lastly, I turn my attention to a remarkable organisation that has been tirelessly working to protect our precious wildlife: the Blue Mountains Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service, WIRES. We are incredibly fortunate to call the Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, home. For over three decades, WIRES has been on call day and night, rescuing injured and at-risk native animals in the Blue Mountains and surrounding areas. Its vital work became even more apparent during the devastating Black Summer bushfires, when millions of animals lost their lives and countless habitats were destroyed.

After the bushfires, like so many areas in our State, the Blue Mountains was hit with destructive storms and flooding, further decimating our beautiful animals and their homes. Despite the challenges posed by fires, floods and the pandemic, WIRES volunteers persevered, undertaking rescues, caring for injured animals and working tirelessly to rehabilitate and release them back into the wild. With 31 active volunteers in the Blue Mountains, in 2022 alone WIRES took over 4,700 calls, drove half a million kilometres and cared for and released more than 2,000 native animals back into the wild. Finally, along with Morna, Ray and the wonderful volunteers of WIRES, I thank the other nominees of these awards. Having worked alongside many of them, I know that they do not do it for the recognition, but today I honour their services and contributions to our wonderful community.