A blind mentor who assists vision- impaired persons to cope with increasing loss of sight, Guide Dog applicants adjusting to their relocation during dog training at Kew Training Centre and a fightback from paraplaegia to return to gymnastics and athletics coaching at 21 years of age all reflect the selfless endeavour, challenges faced and goals achieved.

The Shine On awards comprise the certificate of commendation presented to each awardeed nominated for that year. The Shine On awards trophy acknowledges those who are conspicuous as shining examples from among nominees.

Guest speaker was Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier for Multicultural Affairs, Kaye Darveniza, MLC.

In recognising the community service by this year’s 17 Shine On award trophy recipients, Kaye Darveniza acknowledged the fundamental and critical role played by persons with disabilities in the development of strong, vibrant and resilient communities throughout Victoria.

During the nine years of the awards in Victoria, 375 persons have been nominated and received Shine On recognition. A total of 119 have been presented with the awards trophy.

Congratulating recipients of the 2005 Shine On awards, Master of ceremonies President Gerard White, of the Rotary Club of Yarraville, Vic., thanked major sponsor, Goldman Sachs JBWere Limited, for its continued generous support.

A special vote of thanks was made to President Gerard White and the Rotary Club of Yarraville for the outstanding success of the Shine On awards 2005.

Author of this article, Past President Judi Chipman, of the Rotary Club of Yarraville, Vic., is chairman of Shine On Awards for the Rotary Southern Districts Committee (D9780, 9790, 9800, 9810 and 9820).