Regional South Australians celebrated at awards night
The annual Regional Showcase Awards not only celebrates the achievements of individuals, groups, organisations and towns that have made significant contributions to regional South Australia, but also allows the state’s regions to come together at an awards night to acknowledge the collective impact on South Australia.
The 2020 awards, which were delayed because of COVID restrictions, were held at O’Leary Walker Wines in Clare on Friday 26th of February 2021. Run by Solstice Media, the publisher of InDaily and The Lead South Australia, the editorial program uncovered stories of success that may not usually get told in mainstream media. These stories are published to a local, national and international audience to enhance knowledge of the regions and uncover opportunities for economic investment and growth in the state.
South Australian disability support provider Orana has been helping to empower people living with disability through training, support services and employment opportunities for 70 years – all the while working to create a socially inclusive society.
Orana regional employees Brain Prescott, from Port Pirie Business Services and Katelyn Hartshorne, from Loxton Business Services were invited to attend the awards night after being featured in InDaily’s Regional Showcase last year which supports South Australia’s rural communities by telling their stories and celebrating their successes. Click here to read their stories https://bit.ly/3jibLPP.
Unfortunately, Brian could not make the awards ceremony. However, Katelyn attended the awards night with Fiona Schutz, Orana Loxton Business Service Manager. Katelyn had her hair styled, frocked up and excited to attend the awards night.
Approximately 80 people attended the evening with five award categories and the final overall winner for 2020. The evening started with pre dinner drinks from 6.45pm with a 7.30pm sharp start. 30 finalists were announced in two groups, with pictures on an overhead screen and a description of the finalist and what they represented.
Katelyn was honored to accept the framed finalist certificate on behalf of Orana. Nominated for Disability Support provider creating regional opportunities. Five finalists for SA Agriculture Town of the Year were also presented. Major partners spoke throughout the night including SA Power Networks, Seniors Card, University of South Australia and ANZ Bank, along with CEO and Senior Editors of Solstice Media.
Katlyn and Fiona expressed, “O’Leary Wines was a beautiful setting, overlooking parts of the Clare Valley vineyards. Live music was also provided for entertainment whilst taking in the views and enjoying the evenings events”.
Fiona said, “it was a very enjoyable evening supplied with a wide variety of drinks and food from SA producers”.
Katelyn said “the night was very enjoyable and I really liked hearing about the showcasing of SA and the achievements of others. I’d also like to acknowledge the opportunity that I was provided with and thank everyone who allowed me to participate in this experience”.