Last week, two very special people were recognised at the Civic Honours Awards for their invaluable contribution to Te Mata Park and the wider community. Mike Lusk and Elizabeth Carr have generously given countless hours of voluntary service to our district, and the 26 June ceremony was their time to shine.
Mike Lusk has volunteered for Te Mata Park as our ‘resident caretaker’ for close to 20 years. Mike started the Friends of Te Mata Park volunteer group in 2002 and has a dedicated team of helpers who support him. He is also actively involved at Cape Kidnappers sanctuary, Boundary Stream and Lake Opouahi. Mike grows 300 seedlings annually to plant in Te Mata Park, and his dedication to weed control is remarkable, with exceptional results. Mike’s knowledge of local flora and fauna is unmatched and his efforts have been enjoyed by thousands of people across our local community. We thank you Mike. Give him a pat on the back when you next see him in the Park!
As a Chartered Accountant, Elizabeth Carr has given her considerable expertise to numerous charitable entities across Hawke’s Bay. Liz’s involvement with the Te Mata Park Trust has spanned over 20 years, giving her invaluable support and capabilities to the Trust Board in her unassuming and modest way. Liz’s impact has been felt across many organisations, including Mihiroa Marae, PukePuke Tangiora Estate and Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga. She has also volunteered as a trustee for Hawke’s Bay Cultural Trust, Hawke’s Bay Opera House and Hastings Swimming Charitable Trust. Thank you Liz for your ongoing commitment and contribution to Te Mata Park.
Both Elizabeth and Mike were given a unique gift of pounamu, carved locally, depicting a manaia form with a silhouette of Rongokako. Mike Devonshire, our Trust Chairman had the pleasure of giving the recipients their gifts.
The Civic Awards Ceremony was a very special occasion. We would like to congratulate and thank all recipients for your enormous contribution in making our community a better place for everyone.
