The District Reporter

It’s the quiet achievers who go about their roles without fuss – until they receive notification that they are a recipient for a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). For Bargo resident Evelyn McDonald, 87, it was a surprise and honour to have been acknowledged for her service to the community of Wollondilly. “I feel overwhelmed,” the mother, grandmother and great grandmother said. “It was out of the blue that I was even considered.

A designated $1,388 million has been allocated in the NSW Budget for Picton bypass planning – but as yet no final figure or timeline as to when the road will be built. The funding has been welcomed by Wollondilly Independent MP, Judith Hannan who has been lobbying for the bypass since she was mayor of Wollondilly and now as a parliamentarian – it was an election commitment. Mrs Hannan welcomed the designated funding which is a step in the right direction towards getting the road shovel ready.

St Mark’s Anglian Church in Picton has been the centre point of pray, fellowship and spiritual growth and on July 16, 2025, marks 175 years. On the day, there will be a church service, the laying of a foundation stone for a new Columbarium wall, a creation of a time capsule and a morning tea to celebrate the significant milestone. John Blacket designed the church in 1848 and in 1850 the foundation stone laid.

Edward Gilroy’s service to the community of Camden was recognised in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours List. Mr Gilroy, 90 from Narellan Vale, was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM for his community involvement in and around the area, even his life membership with the Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club was brought to light. Mr Gilroy is humbled by the acknowledgement and said this award “was out of his league”.

Angus Taylor, the federal Liberal MP Hume  tonight has quit the Opposition front bench. In a statement Mr Taylor, who was the shadow spokesperson for defense, said he advised the Leader of the Opposition, Sussan Ley, he could no longer support her leadership of the Federal Liberal Party. “Since last May, I have worked hard as a member of the leadership group and the Shadow Cabinet to help our team regroup and rebuild after the federal election.

Dr Stuart John Quarmby, founding headmaster of Wollondilly Anglican School, has been awarded an Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to primary and secondary education. Dr Quarmby was the headmaster at Wollondilly Anglican  from 2004-2020 and held other position in his career, including Deputy Headmaster, Director of Pastoral Care, and Head of Science, Broughton Anglican College, 1991-2003 and high school teacher with the New South Wales Department of Education, 1981-1990.

Christopher Xegas introduction to aged care has seen him catapulted to the regional training awards happening tonight (Friday, June 20). The Year 12 student from The Oaks, who attends Campbelltown Performing Arts High School is a finalist for School-Based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the aged care sector. Some have said he is a “rising star”.

Dave Millott epitomises loyalty. Mr Millott has devoted almost half a century to club cricket and for his dedication has been awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in recognition of his service to the sport. He recollected over the years he was told he should have received an award for his effort. “Someone actually nominated me; I feel proud and honoured to have received the acknowledgement. “I don’t like showboating and I very much appreciate it,” he said.

John Bicknell aged 87 had a hard start to life, but he thrived in his adopted country and has always been ready to lend a hand when needed. Mr Bicknell has been recognised for his decades of contribution to community organisations and rural advocacy, receiving an Order of Australia Medal (OAM). “I am shocked. I never had any idea that people would be so interested,” he said.

Wherever you are driving this long weekend – double demerits apply until 11.59pm, Monday, January 26. Traffic and highway patrol officers with local police will be targeting all road-related offences including speeding, wearing seatbelts, drink and drug driving, distractions, driving tired and any dangerous driving behaviours which put the safety of road users at risk. Last year’s road toll was 355 deaths.