The Oamaru Steam and Rail Restoration Society was chosen over 43 other applicants as the winner of the inaugural TrustPower Oamaru community awards, presented at the Homestead last night.
The society received a cheque for $1500, a framed certificate, a trophy sculpted by Hampden artist Reid Wilson and a six-month subscription to Fundraising in New Zealand magazine.
It will also represent the area at the TrustPower national community awards in March next year.
Waitaki Mayor Alex Familton said the number of applications reflected the great value and depth of the Waitaki district's volunteer base.
"We look forward to the recognition and support that accrues to those who received awards," he said.
TrustPower has had similar awards in previous years in other communities, but this year was the first time Oamaru had been included, in recognition of the company's involvement in the town.
In total, TrustPower gave $5250 to various community groups at the awards.
The Oamaru Steam and Rail Restoration Society has spent thousands of hours maintaining and operating vintage railway equipment at Oamaru's historic precinct.
TrustPower community relations representative Melanie Gray said this enthusiastic group of volunteers had given the town an attraction of which it could be proud.
Both locals and overseas visitors enjoyed the opportunity to view the historic Oamaru harbour by rail.
"This group have restored these locomotives, and in doing so have created a valuable asset for the town," Miss Gray said.
Other winners were:
• Heritage and environment: winner, Clarks Mill Restorers; runner-up, North Otago branch of the Historic Places Trust.
• Health and wellbeing: winner, North Otago Riding for the Disabled; runner-up, Oamaru Volunteer Fire Brigade.
• Arts and culture: winner, Janet Frame Eden Street Trust; runner-up, Oamaru Repertory Society.
• Sport and leisure: winner, Pathfinders Gymnastics Club; runner-up, Scotts Own Sea Scouts.
• Educational and child/youth development: winner, Oamaru Guide Club; runner-up, North Otago Toy Library.
