Small rural communities around the country could learn a thing or two from the Duntroon and District Development Association, Trustpower community relations representative Arielle Monk says.
The association won the supreme award at this year's Trustpower Waitaki District Community Awards, presented at the Oamaru Opera House last night.
Two representatives from the DDDA received, on behalf of all volunteers involved, a framed certificate, a trophy and $1500 in prize money.
''These people have shown they care about where they are from, and to have been on at it like a foxy with a bone, that really just shows their intent is real,'' Ms Monk said.
''They won't let Duntroon or the Waitaki Valley be forgotten about.''
The group will represent the district at the national Trustpower awardsin Dunedin in March.
Waitaki Girls' High School pupil Hannah Ballantyne received the Trustpower Youth Community Spirit award for her service to school and community projects, including fundraising for victims of Cyclone Pam in Vanuatu.
Josh MacColl was named runner-up and Alex Lister won the same award for the Waihemo area.
More than 100 groups were nominated for awards and Trustpower handed out more than $5000 to various community groups last night.
Other winners.-
Heritage and environment: Oamaru Steam and Rail Restoration Society; runner-up, Nicol's Blacksmith Historic Trust.
Health and well being: Relay for Life; runner-up, Waitaki Resource Recovery Trust.
Arts and culture: Oamaru Repertory Society; runner-up, Waitaki District Schools Pipe Band; commendation, Harbour Street Jazz Inc.
Sport and leisure: North Otago Mountain Biking; runner-up, Otematata Residents' Association; commendation, Palmerston Mini Show.
Education and Child/Youth Development: Waitaki Community Gardens; runner-up, Waitaki Valley Preschool; commendation, Altrusa Oamaru.
