THE importance of community was highlighted during the Buloke Shire’s Australia Day Eve award ceremony when guest speaker and Beyond Blue ambassador Brad McEwan took to the stage.
Passionate about mental health, wellbeing and small communities, the former television personality and sports journalist touched on his own experience with mental health issues and the impact of losing two family members – his father and brother — to suicide.
“Just like Sea Lake, when we couldn’t pick ourselves up, it was the community that did,” McEwan said, recognising Sea Lake had endured its own fair share of tragedy and tough times in recent years.
He said being kind could make a huge impact during times of difficulty, adding that one should never underestimate the power of a small act of kindness.
“Small things are big things and being kind is incredibly powerful,” McEwan said.
“Everyone has a story, everyone can change someone’s life and everyone can be kind.”
His words rang true for Berriwillock resident Trevor Emonson who was named this year’s Buloke Shire Citizen of the Year.
Mr Emonson said his family was forever grateful for the support, generosity and acts of kindness they received from the community when their family home was destroyed in a house fire in the 1960s.
“We lost everything,” Mr Emonson said, noting he walked away from the fire with only the clothes on his back.
Despite being only four years old at the time, Mr Emonson clearly recalls that day, and how the community rallied behind them in their time of need.
“My parents never forgot what the Berriwillock community did for us,” he said.
Today, Mr Emonson is the first to help others in need.
Lauded as selfless, Mr Emonson was recognised for his contribution to the town.
Guests at the Australia Day eve ceremony got a glimpse of the role Mr Emonson has played in helping to shape the Berriwillock community, and his involvement in the various sporting and community organisations he volunteers for.
“Nothing is too hard or too much trouble for Trevor Emonson. Proud and loyal to his community, Trevor is always there to lend a hand and contribute, no matter what the organisation,” his citation said.
Over the years, the semi-retired farmer has been heavily involved with the football, tennis and bowls club, CFA, Community Development Group, Back To Committee, Cemetery Trust and Recreation Reserve.
And while volunteers are the lifeblood of small towns, a humble Mr Emonson said he enjoyed contributing to the community and helping out where he could.
“It’s never felt like a job or chore, it’s always been something I’ve wanted to do,” he said.
“There’s so many other people in the area doing wonderful things. I’m really honoured to be standing here tonight.”
