LEETON mayor Paul Maytom was in disbelief upon receiving not just one, but two highly-acclaimed Rotary honours.
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Announced at the Rotary Club of Leeton’s recent 75th anniversary celebrations, councillor Maytom received the highest honour the club can bestow – the Paul Harris Fellow Recognition.
He was also gifted the Rotary Award for Excellence in Service to Humanity.
A Paul Harris Fellow Paul Harris is both an award for exemplary work in community service or helping those in need. It can be awarded to a Rotary or community member.
Cr Maytom was honoured for his many years of service to Leeton shire on council, community groups and more.
While he was over the moon to receive such recognition, it was the humanitarian award that had him in disbelief.
“I thought I was just there on the night to celebrate the anniversary,” Cr Maytom said.
“I had no official duties, so when I was called out to receive these two awards it was a pretty big shock.
“I certainly never expected either of them.”
Cr Maytom received the humanitarian award for his efforts wit the Friends of Luro organisation and, more recently, the work he has been doing with refugees and migrants to the shire.
He said he came to Leeton not knowing a soul to work as a fruit picker. Not long after he formed a strong bond with an Italian family that he continues to share today.
“That was where it all started for me,” he said.
“I knew from then on how important it was to make sure everyone was made feel welcome and to embrace different cultures and nationalities.”
Members of the multicultural support group that Cr Maytom is part of, as well as East Timor Ambassador to Australia Abel Guterres were all on hand for the presenations.
“The big thing for me is that now this award will hopefully create more awareness of what we are doing and have been doing here in Leeton when it comes to refugees and our connection with East Timor,” Cr Maytom said.