Well-loved local Geoff Riley OAM was awarded the inaugural Norm Brennan Community Contribution Award during the gala Business Excellence Awards ceremony.
Chamber created the award to recognise an individual that has made a significant contribution to the Deniliquin community.
It is named in honour of Mr Brennan, who died in 2021 while still Mayor of Edward River Council, in recognition of his life to this community and being a “fierce defender of our values and our way of life, with a spirit that shone through in everything he did”.
Even now at 90 years old, Mr Riley’s commitment to the community is evident.
His involvement in the community has been through roles as a business owner, as a Deniliquin Lion, through St Michael’s Church and his various charity and volunteer roles.
“Mr Riley is one of only two people to have ever been bestowed life membership of the Deniliquin Business Chamber,” his citation read.
“Geoff opened a menswear store in Deniliquin in 1967, and was a member of the chamber for 31 years.
“One of his enduring legacies is his 53-year membership of the Deniliquin Lions Club, at 90 years of age he still contributes to and enjoys his Lions role.”
Mr Riley has also dedicated a lot of time to Navorina Nursing Homes as a volunteer and board member.
He helped establish the facility in the 1980s and is a former chair of its board, stepping away from the committee only last year.
Mr Riley was unable to attend the gala awards ceremony last week, but said he was proud to have been honoured in such a way.
“I was delighted, especially as it was named after Norm,” Mr Riley said.
“He was a wonderful community person, who I got on so well with.
“I’m honoured to be the first recipient of such a prestigious award.”
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