The NSW Local Woman of the Year for the Blue Mountains, Colleen Kime, has shown a commitment to the small things that has ensured an absolutely massive contribution to the community.
Mrs Kime was presented the award recently by Minister for Family and Community Services Pru Goward and Member for Blue Mountains Roza Sage in recognition of her tireless volunteer work over many years, from netball to council and everything in between.
Mrs Kime said the secret to her ongoing efforts — which more often than not have involved her husband Kerry – was that she genuinely enjoys contributing to the community.
“I’ve been amazed at the things we’ve been involved with over the years and how much they’ve given back to us,” she said.
“Volunteering, to me, is something that gives people so much joy. If only more people would get involved they would find out how great it is to be a volunteer in any organisation.”
Mrs Kime’s near endless list of commitments and achievements over the years include: Blue Mountains City councillor for eight years and founding member of the Blue Mountains Sister City Committee; a life member of the Blue Mountains Netball Association and Springwood Blue Mountains Netball Club after years of committee work, coaching, umpiring and as a key figure in finding a home ground; founding member of the Springwood Foundation Day committee; involvement in an international exchange program and fostering children; and an ongoing role as secretary of the Springwood Catholic Women’s League.
Mrs Sage said it was an honour to present the award to such a committed community servant.
“Colleen is one of those amazing women in the Blue Mountains who ensure this is such a unique and fulfilling place to live,” said Mrs Sage.
“She is a fantastic role model and I hope that sharing her story helps to create greater respect for women in our community and inspires others to make a difference.”
For Mrs Kime, who maintains a reduced yet still heavy workload, it continues to be about focusing on the little contributions that make a big difference to so many.
“Sue-ellen, my second daughter, once gave me a quote from Mother Teresa: ‘There are many people who can do big things but very few who will do the small things. Works of love are works of peace’,” she said. “This is how I see what I have been part of over the years.”
