Sad to hear the news that the Blue Mountains Citizen of the Year, Helen Walker, has died.
Ms Walker, OAM, was instrumental in establishing GREAT Community Transport and worked tirelessly for the community.
We repeat our report of the Australia Day ceremony, at which she was named citizen of the year, and send our condolences to her family and friends.
When Helen Walker retired from her role managing GREAT Community Transport in November, she thought it would be her final moment in the spotlight.
But the Wentworth Falls resident received new recognition on Australia Day when she was named Blue Mountains Citizen of the Year at a ceremony in Springwood.
Ms Walker, 65, played a crucial role providing community transport to the Blue Mountains for three decades. She grew what was a local, one-person service to a regional organisation that now include two offices, 25 vehicles, a team of paid drivers and staff, and more than 100 volunteers.
“This award is due recognition for Helen’s dedication and commitment to making people’s lives better. As she begins her new chapter of retirement, it is fitting that her contribution to the Blue Mountains community is acknowledged in the highest regard,” said Blue Mountains mayor Mark Greenhill.
In receiving the award, Ms Walker paid tribute to the community spirit in the Blue Mountains.
“We were renowned for annoying government enough to get more money… We all rallied together to support our local area because we were [categorised] as a ‘tacked on’ outer metropolitan area.”
