FOR more than three decades, Gannawarra shire resident Christine O’Donoghue has been actively involved with St Vincent de Paul, providing a helping hand to those in need.
She’s clocked up 33 years’ of service with the organisation, volunteering throughout New South Wales and Victoria.
Her ongoing commitment and dedication to the St Vincent de Paul society was recently acknowledged when members of the Kerang/Murrabit Conference bid farewell to the long-time member who is preparing to once again move interstate.
In what was described as an “emotional” farewell dinner, fellow members and lifelong friends joined together in appreciation of the role Ms O’Donoghue has played within the organisation.
President of the Kerang/Murrabit Conference, Maria Lewis, paid tribute to Ms O’Donoghue and the contribution she’s made at a local level.
“We’re very sorry she’s leaving us,” Ms Lewis said, noting Ms O’Donoghue had been an asset to the small but dedicated group of volunteers servicing the Gannawarra shire, especially in her role as secretary.
“She’s been a very committed secretary,” Ms Lewis said.
“She will certainly be missed at the centre. Christine has also been extremely involved at St Patrick’s Parish and other service clubs in Kerang.”
However, a humble Ms O’Donoghue said she didn’t consider her three decades of service to the organisation to be deserving of any accolades.
“It’s just what we do,” she said.
Helping people in need and giving back to her local community has been at the forefront of much of Ms O’Donoghue’s life.
She grew up with St Vincent de Paul with her parents both heavily involved in the organisation in her hometown of Broken Hill.
Ms O’Donoghue said she was grateful she was able to assist other community members during times of hardship.
“It’s rather nice to give back and provide guidance and help where we can,” Ms O’Donoghue said.
“It’s satisfying to know we’ve made a difference.”
Ms O’Donoghue said the society’s volunteering work varied depending on the needs of the local community.
“Sometimes people just want somebody to talk to and a cup of tea,” Ms O’Donoghue said.
“A problem shared is a problem halved.”
Working closely with the other volunteers, Ms O’Donoghue said she’s made lifelong friends during her time with St Vincent de Paul.
“Working with each other on such a personal level, we have all become good friends through that shared experience,” she said.
Preparing to move to Dubbo, Ms O’Donoghue said the interstate move was bittersweet.
“I love Kerang, and I love the people,” she said.
“It’s hard to leave Kerang.”
