Meals on Wheels volunteer Barry Hyde has been named as the 2024 Gosford Seniors Award Winner, chosen from a number of high-calibre nominees.
He has been helping to feed the community three to four times each week for more than 21 years.
“In my life I have always been with elderly people more than young people,” he said.
“I have always had a lot of time for the elderly, and I like helping them out; any little thing that I can do for them.
“I love doing it.”
Hyde was nominated for the award by Meals on Wheels Central Coast Operations Manager Leesa O’Keefe.
“Barry always goes above and beyond for the clients of Meals on Wheels, he is the first to jump in if we are short of volunteers, no matter what day it is,” she said.
“He comes in happy every shift, and many of our clients ask if Barry will be delivering their meals when they ring to place an order.
“He has a genuine joy in helping the vulnerable members of our community.
“This award is very well deserved.”
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said Hyde had given his time generously throughout the years.
“I congratulate all of the nominees, who have made our region a diverse, active and inspirational place to live for their generous and remarkable contributions.
“It was a thrill to join Barry and the team at Meals on Wheels to present Barry with a certificate recognising him as the 2024 Gosford Seniors Award Winner.
“Barry’s sense of community spirit and generosity is a true symbol of the best of our community.
“It is people like Barry that make our Central Coast community such a beautiful place to live.
“I send my most heartfelt thanks, not only to Barry, but also to all our Coastie seniors, who look after our community each and every day.
“A special mention also goes out to the 2024 Gosford Seniors Award runners-up, Frank Wiffen, Bill Bollard and June O’Neill.
“Our community is so lucky that you call the Coast home.”
The 2024 Gosford Seniors Awards, held each year as part of the NSW Seniors Festival, highlight the diverse ways seniors support their families, communities and society more broadly across the Central Coast and beyond.