Community Awards

Ann Wales – In recognition of services to the Boorowa community.

Ann Wales grew up in Boorowa attending the Boorowa Central School.

After leaving school Ann worked in the ANZ Bank. Ann married local lad

Kevin Wales and later moved to Canberra. Ann is a member of the local RSL and with the help of Diane Elliott wrote the book,

“Boorowa Remembers” 1915-2015. Centenary of Service in WW I.

A record of the Australian soldiers who were from Boorowa (NSW) and surrounding areas and who served in the Australian Imperial Force during

World War 1.

As part of this project she was also instrumental in the research and establishment of the Dr Kelf Memorial Park, which commemorates 26 Boorowa Service personnel who received honours and awards during WW1

Sadly, Diane passed away before the book was finished so Ann took on the task of finishing it on her own – not an easy achievement.

Following on Ann took on another task to find all the names of those who enlisted in the Second World War. She came up with 839 men and 48 women all registered at Boorowa.

On Remembrance Day 2024 the Boorowa RSL erected a new Honour Board with 887 names in the Foyer at the Boorowa Ex-Services Club.

Ann is also responsible for having a plaque made, with the names of the Korean and Vietnam Veterans which is also at the War Memorial.

We would like to recognise Ann for her dedication to Boorowa’s proud military history.

John Ryan (Jack) – In recognition of services to the Boorowa community.

John Ryan known as “Jack” grew up on the family property “Ryandale”.

Being home grown he has taken to involving himself over the years in many local activities such as: the Boorowa Show, Boorowa Picnic Races, Boorowa Irish Woolfest and in the past has coached one of the

Rugby Union teams. Jack is a passionate supporter of the Boorowa Rugby Union Club. He has been an MC for the Boorowa Irish Woolfest, and on the Committee since its inception. Jack has been the Announcer of the Day for the Boorowa Show for many years and has had the prestigious honour of opening the Boorowa Show.

Jack has served on numerous other Committees those including:

St Joseph’s P&C, Limestone/Kangiara Bushfire Brigade, Carinya Court and the Catholic Church Parish Finance Committee.

Jack has served as a local Councillor on the Boorowa Council prior to amalgamation. Jack has always been a strong supporter of the town both in business and in the community, having been involved in local business both with Elders, the Ned Ryan Motel and as a local farmer and family man.

Everyone knew of icon Furner Dwyer. Furner would walk up the main street whistling as he went, talking to locals and those passing through. Jack is a “modern day Furner”. All the young folk know him and he knows them by name taking an interest in them personally.

Jack is a passionate local, along with a colourful personality which enhances his enthusiasm and dedication towards the community of Boorowa.

Judy Ford – In recognition of services to the Boorowa community.

Judy is one of those people that just gets in and gets the job done and never expecting recognition, she does not just put her hand up, she is an “action woman”. Judy will be absolutely blown away by this nomination. Her longstanding role with the Boorowa Australia Day Committee and the important role of Treasurer. She keeps the finances in check with constant visits to Council Offices to advocate for Boorowa community funds!

Boorowa Show Society with the key role of organising the display of the much admired knitting section!

In recent times the Boorowa Hospital Auxiliary and her role of organising the Boorowa Community Calendar comeback. Along with all things social including the Melbourne Cup celebrations.

Today we recognise Judy’s contribution to various community groups including her current commitments on the Boorowa Australia Day Committee, the Boorowa Show Society, the Boorowa Hospital Auxiliary and the Boorowa Silo Committee. In addition, over the years her volunteer roles include: Boorowa Meals on Wheels, Boorowa Central School Canteen, Junior League and the Boorowa Basketball Committee for which her service was acknowledged with Life Membership.

Judy always has the community of Boorowa at heart and continues to show her selfless support and dedication in so many ways. Judy, we would like to acknowledge your commitment and service to the Boorowa community.