Shining lights from the South East
Local
A wildlife rescuer, a charity worker and a winemaking family are the recipients of this year’s Shining Light awards.
The awards recognise the contribution to the community of outstanding alumni of Mount Gambier’s Tenison Woods College, including its forerunners Marist Brothers’ Agricultural College, Mater Christi College and Tenison College.
Mount Gambier parishioner Elina King was acknowledged for her lifelong commitment to helping others.
Elina was shaped by the strong values instilled by her parents and the enduring influence of the Sisters during her time as a boarder at Mater Christi College, continuing through its transition to Tenison College.
It was in these formative years that Elina began her charitable work, which she has passionately sustained throughout her life.
Congratulating her on Facebook, the Mount Gambier parish said it was “incredibly blessed and grateful” for Elina’s generous contribution to the life of the parish.
Julia Dangerfield was recognised for her deep passion for wildlife rescue which began with volunteering to help possums and responding to emergency calls.
What started as a volunteer role has grown into a full-time career with a wildlife rescue organisation.
Alongside her professional work, Julia continues to care for many orphaned animals, including a wombat she raised and now lives at the Prague Zoo in the Czech Republic.
The other Shining Light award went to the Lynn family. Brothers Brian and Tony Lynn are founders and directors of Majella Wines and have made a significant and lasting impact on the Coonawarra region.
After attending Marist Brother’s Agricultural College, they returned to their family property where in 1968 they planted six acres of grapevines. This was the beginning of a journey that has influenced both the local wine industry and the wider community.
Principal David Mezinec said by recognising these outstanding citizens the college hoped to inspire current and future students, as well as celebrating the rich history of Catholic education in the South East.
He said the presentation evening was filled with joyful reunions, heartfelt stories and warm celebration, reflecting the strong bonds within the Tenison Woods College community.
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