Yesterday, in the annual NSW Seniors Week Awards at Sydney, people from the Illawarra and New South Wales south coast were declared winners.

Minister for Ageing, Paul Lynch presented awards to over 60 seniors and seniors' organizations at the City Recital Hall. Several of the individual winners and organizations were from Western Sydney, showing the Western Sydney as one of the most caring communities in NSW.

Mr. Lynch said that the winners improved their society by giving their time, skills, vigor and fervor to numerous important services and activities.

"They give their time unselfishly to help their local communities and improve the quality of life of many tens of thousands of people around the State".

Jean Barret of Bellambi was bestowed a community service and volunteering award for work with the cancer patient support group.

Cordeaux Heights man, John Bilboe got an award in the same category for medical work in the Philippines and disability care.

Pia Nyboer from Manyana was also honored for volunteer work with the Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association.

Gai Ta of Fairy Meadon took the health and well-being award for coordinating the Illawarra-based Indochinese Aged Group.