OAM for top volunteer
TIRELESS volunteer Yvonne Shapiro has been awarded an honorary Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community of Rose Bay, particularly for the aged as a volunteer administrator at the Princess Gardens Retirement Village.
Although the usual framework for these accolades coincides with Australia Day or the Queen’s Birthday, honorary awards are made to those living in Australia who are not Australian citizens.
Shapiro came to Australia in 1968, but rules stipulated she was not required to become a citizen.
Shapiro said she felt surprised, honoured and humbled to learn she would receive an OAM.
She began volunteering at B’nai B’rith’s Princess Gardens in 2003, assisting in setting up the library. “I decided if I could help a little bit, I would,” she told The AJN.
Shapiro, a qualified bookkeeper, now represents the village in all facets of operation, particularly ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and also managing the resident caretaker. She also assists village residents with any welfare issues and organises regular functions and activities.
Her history with B’nai B’rith stretches back to her life in New Zealand, where her father was president of the Wellington Lodge. She and husband Michael (who received an OAM last year) are members of the Syd Einfeld Unit in Sydney, where she also holds the post of treasurer.
Shapiro accepted her award from the Governor of NSW, the Honourable David Hurley, in a ceremony at Government House on May 1.
She said she keeps very busy and expects to continue in this way in the years to come. “Nothing’s going to change. I’m going to keep on doing what I love doing,” she said.
PHOEBE ROTH
Yvonne Shapiro (left) receiving her OAM from NSW Governor David Hurley. Photo: Courtesy Rob Tuckwell photography
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