Dale McCleary's voice cracked with emotion when he received the 2019 Local Hero Award for his volunteer work delivering supplies of bottled water to bushfire-ravaged and drought-struck communities.
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"Nobody in Australia should be without water," Mr McCleary said, choking back sobs.
"You've got no idea what a smile and cuddle from someone who has nothing means," Mr McCleary said.
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The sound of thunderous applause filled the Woodside Hall as the crowd leapt to their feet to give Mr McCleary a standing ovation.
However Mr McCleary, turning red from all the applause, said the real local heroes were the members of the community who unfailingly donated their time, money, and water whenever he put his hands up for a supply run.
"You guys just keep donating and donating and donating, and I can't thank you guys enough", because without you guys I can't do the stuff that I do," Mr McCleary said.
"Griffith you are amazing."
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It has been Australia's lost summer. Drought, hail, floods and, worst of all, bushfires have ravaged communities all over the nation. But the selfless actions of friends, family, neighbours, strangers, local groups and volunteer organisations have inspired us and strengthened the bonds of community. Please join us in saying thanks to the heroes of the home front by sharing your stories of gratitude. To salute a person or a group, please use the form below.
Kenji Sato
Kenji Sato is a handsome journalist at The Daily Advertiser who enjoys writing flattering bios about himself in the third person. He can be contacted by email at kenji.sato@dailyadvertiser.com.au or by mobile on 0448 927 612.
Kenji Sato is a handsome journalist at The Daily Advertiser who enjoys writing flattering bios about himself in the third person. He can be contacted by email at kenji.sato@dailyadvertiser.com.au or by mobile on 0448 927 612.
