THERE is never a dull moment when Mr Don Paproth is in the room, and it was no different this morning at Wonthaggi Union Theatre; that was even before he was presented with the Citizen of the Year Award from the Rotary Club of Wonthaggi.
Fun banter erupted between the duo when Rotarian and MC Brett Tessari welcomed Mr Paproth to the stage to present a Community Service Award to Danny Luna.
A beautiful, witty presentation to Mr Luna, the “only Roman in Wonthaggi”, followed from the man who started Wonthaggi Tech High on the same day, and finished secondary on the same day as the man from Rome.
And in discussing all Mr Luna’s achievements and dedication to Wonthaggi, Mr Paproth asked the crowd to rest with one thought for a moment.
“Danny hated the thought of debt, and set about reigning in the borough’s debt. When the Council’s amalgamated in 1994, the borough was almost debt-free. Think of that just a moment… Think of what a joy that would be if our shire was debt free, and our state!”
There were plenty of incredible accomplishments noted on stage during the two-hour-long event.
Wonthaggi-born guest speaker and Rotary Club of Wonthaggi Australia Day Ambassador Brother Daryl Moresco of The Order of Carmelite spoke of his work in Australia and the USA, which like all those on stage today can only be described as tireless dedication.
From growing up in Wonthaggi to teaching in Donvale (Whitefriars College) to travelling to the United States and working in communities where drive-by shootings are a daily occurrence – teaching at Mount Carmel High School in South Chicago, becoming Director of Postulates and later Novice Director, and significantly changing the lives of those who faced “very difficult upbringings”.
Refusing to sit around when COVID hit, Brother Daryl went to help at the Catholic University of America.
“We have an expression in religious life ‘live simply, so that others may simply live’.”
Brother Daryl brought an incredible insight into his life and work with The Order of Carmelite, which was followed by performances from singer Deanne Battaglia, which had Mr Luna’s grandson boppin’ in his seat before the awards were announced.
Community Sports Award recipient Peter Dell was recognised for his outstanding leadership, achievements and commitment to cricket and of particular note wearing the baggy green cap representing Australia last year.
Barbara Luke received the Community Award as a tireless community worker who has made a significant contribution to the lives of others in the many different committees and organisations she has been a part of including the Glen Alvie Ladies Hall Committee.
Community Award recipients Alan and Robyn Bolding were recognised for their life-long service and commitment to the Wonthaggi community, of note, Mr Bolding’s service through The Wonthaggi Club and Breakers, and Mrs Bolding’s on local pre-school and school committees as well as the pony club, amongst other things.
Rotarian Bill Street presented Dirty Three Wines owners Lisa Sartori and Marcus Satchell with the Business Award in recognition of the growth and success of a well-known local business. Speaking about their local upbringing in Wonthaggi and subsequent marriage before heading to Melbourne, Bill acknowledged their support of local organisations in training individuals through encouragement and nurturing, assisting others to develop their projects in the wine and hospitality industries.
It was then time for former District Governor and District Foundation Chair Mark Humphries to present the Citizen of the Year Award to Mr Paproth.
Of note, Mr Humphries highlighted Mr Paproth’s dedication as Chair of Bass Coast Health for seven years, during which time Bass Coast Health underwent a significant transformation, including one of Mr Paproth’s proudest achievements, the creation of the Cancer Centre in memory of late friend Kevin O’Halloran. Mark also recognised Mr Paproth’s early life and passion for football – his “tenacity and sportsmanship on the field his love for the game and commitment” to his team.
Which according to the man himself, made him feel like a bit of a fraud standing on the stage.
“There’s four people in the room who know the truth (about my football days). I wasn’t very good. As a matter of fact, I was really bad and to be mentioned in the same room as John Walsh is astonishing.”
Mr Paproth also noted the transformation of Wonthaggi Hospital was due to Jan Child, not himself, and whilst he couldn’t speak more highly of Ms Child, it would be remiss for one to think he didn’t contribute significantly through his hard work and dedication to BCH, even if he wasn’t claiming it.
The breakfast before the ceremony was also a hit with over 70 locals turning out for the event.
See all the pictures and read more in this week’s edition (out Wednesday, January 29).
