Kiwibank Local Heroes Medal Recipients for Otago

David Henry of Dunedin

Dave has dedicated many years of service to the Otago region. He is a life member of the Roxburugh Jaycees,  is a Justice of the Peace and has been awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship as a non Rotarian for his contribution to the community of Dunedin. After retiring in 2001 having worked for Trust Bank for 33 years and with Age Concern Otago for 15 years he started work as a part time fundraiser for the Methodist Mission. Outside of this Dave is passionate about getting out and walking, and promoting the health benefits from this simple activity.

Despite suffering serious health issues Dave has used this passion to walk every one of Dunedin’s streets 10 times. In doing so Dave on his 10th effort has raised over $4000 for the Ronald McDonald House South Island. Dave has received commendations from Osteoporosis New Zealand and the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation for his endeavours to raise awareness of the benefits of regular physical activity especially for older New Zealanders.

Derek Beveridge of Oamaru

Derek has been making a huge contribution to his local community for over 30 years.He trains Air Cadet Youth, is a Search and Rescue volunteer, chairman of the local Mountain Safety Council and is on the Board of Trustees for two local schools – as well as supporting fundraising for local sports teams.

Derek also heavily supports the ‘Blue Light Disco run for, and by, local youth.’ On top of this Derek has spent many years as a Police Officer and continually works towards making Oamaru a great place to live.

Julie Woods of Dunedin

Julie Woods’ story is one of courage, inspiration and a never say die attitude. Julie went blind 13 years ago when her children were aged one and three, but this did little to slow her down. Julie is now an accomplished life coach and motivational speaker – visiting and having a profound impact on numerous organisations and group.

These include appearing on Good Morning promoting her book on ‘How to Make a Silver Lining’, walking five half marathons and speaking with Prime Minister John Key at the launch of the Digital Talking Book project. Julie has made a choice to look at the positives in her life, and by doing so she inspires others to do the same.

Michelle Kennedy of Clutha

Michelle kennedy currently volunteers with the St Johns ambulance service, is a member of the West Otage Community Board and a trustee on the West Otago Health Trust. She is also a member of TWO Promotions – a group who promote the local area and a member of Fundraising for the Health of West Otago Committee who face the task of raising $1.5 million from the community to build a new medical centre and rest home in Tapanui. As a pillar of the community Michelle also organises the Xmas parade and works as an aged care worker.

Paul Clements of Dunedin

Paul Clements makes a difference to the people of Dunedin every day. Paul is an active Fireman at the Dunedin Central Fire station, has been on the Victim Support Committee for 15 years, is the President of the Dunedin Fire Brigade Restoration Society and has helped  build homes for Habitat for Humanity. Paul has voluntarily served on the Special Rigs for Special Kids committee for 17 years. Special Rigs for Special Kids is an annual event which began in Dunedin in 1992. On a Sunday late in August each year a convoy of trucks, which can include Kenworth, Foden, Volvo, Scania, Mack, and many other takes a group of special kids on a ride of their lives.

Sidney Bing Crosby of Balclutha

Bing Crosby is a life member of the Balclutha Golf Club, where for many years he was the president committing countless voluntary hours of service. He also coaches aspiring young golfers and is still maintaining a large flower garden at the club rooms. Bing is also a member of the Kaka Point Bowling Club acting as a voluntary Green Keeper, where he led fundraising activities for a new pavilion. Bing shares his love of music by being a member of the local country music club and plays free concerts at two local rest homes on a monthly basis


Farryn Crawford of Waikoikoi

Farryn has been a positive role model to young people in her community through her leadership, cultural and sporting endeavours. Farryn was a member of the Clutha District Youth Council for a number of years driving initiatives for youth in the region. She was also a member of the Children’s Commissioners Young People Reference Group.

Farryn represented the Clutha District as an young leader at the Aspiring Young Leaders Conference and has been heavily involved in drama and dance groups in her community. Farryn is heavily involved in women’s rugby. She made her first appearance for the Otago Women’s team in 2010 and  established and coached a women’s team for Arana residence hall and coached the team to go on and win their competition. Farryn was the regional winner of the Trustpower Community Youth Spirit Award in 2009.