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Four remarkable individuals have been selected by OAK Tasmania’s Board of Directors as recipients of the 2012 Heart of OAK Award.

Minister for Human Services, Ms Cassy O’Connor MP presented the recipients with their awards at a cocktail function at Parliament House.

“Whether it’s giving their time or donating money, each of these Award winners has shown the important difference that volunteers can make in the life of others – and I congratulate them for their efforts,” Ms O’Connor said.

“OAK Tasmania does wonderful work for the community, and I would encourage more Tasmanians to get involved in supporting the disability sector.”

The Heart of OAK Award recognises the significant contributions of individuals or organisations to OAK Tasmania. Held during National Volunteers Week, the prestigious Award acknowledges the commitment volunteers and philanthropic supporters have made to OAK Tasmania in support of its programs and services.

2012 Heart of OAK Award recipients (from left) Peter Jacobson, Jill Calvert, Patrick Lunn & Barry Lambert.

This year’s recipients include:

• Mrs Jill Calvert, who has actively served the community for almost 30 years as a committee member of the Retarded Children’s Welfare Association (the predecessor of OAK Tasmania), and as an OAK Tasmania Board Member – a position she still holds today.
• Mr Patrick Lunn, Managing Partner of well-respected legal firm Simmons Wolfhagen. Simmons Wolfhagen has supported OAK Tasmania by offering a range of its legal services to OAK Tasmania as an ‘in-kind’ donation. The firm is also financially supporting OAK Tasmania’s photography program and annual exhibition.
• Mr Peter Jacobson, a long-serving employee of OAK Tasmania’s Walkabout Industries. Peter is a specialist in security paper shredding, potting mix production and in the solvent operations of the business. Peter has also devoted much of his time to mentoring new employees – displaying his natural kindness to ensure they are provided with encouragement, support and practical help as they begin their working lives.
• Mr Barry Lambert, Founder and Director of Count Financial Foundation. Barry started his own business in 1982 and today Count is Australia’s largest network of account-based advisors. Barry established the Count Charitable Foundation to give back to the community and to help those who are less fortunate to achieve their dreams and goals in life.

Following the official proceedings, Mr Lambert surprised everyone by presenting OAK CEO John Paton with a further pledge of $10,000, in addition to his previously generous donations.

The Heart of OAK Award was first presented in 2011 to Peter Blackwood, Bob Smith, Noel Beswick and Judith Cleaver.