Dame Susan Devoy: Celebrate achievement

One hundred and sixty nine New Zealanders were recognised in the latest Queen's Birthday Honours list and among them were five local residents.
I was delighted to read that Frank Vosper deservedly received a QSM (Queen's Service Medal.)
Frank is one of those gems within our community who has devoted so much of his time supporting a variety of causes. His accomplished skills as an auctioneer are well sought after and his great sense of humour always adds value to any occasion.
The others were less well-known to myself but I'm sure our community is better off for the service they have given, undoubtedly with no expectation of national recognition.
I know not everyone believes in the merits of national honours and even those who do would not necessarily agree with the choices approved by the Cabinet committee who make the recommendations to the Queen.
The headlines of honour recipients are always dominated by the Knights and Dames but if you take the time to peruse the list, particularly the QSMs, you will be amazed by the cultural diversity of the recipients and different areas of work they are involved with.
This is highlighted when you look at our local recipients receiving acknowledgment for music, conservation, search and rescues and services to the community.
I have been privileged to receive an honour. Not long after I received my gong, the-then Labour Government changed the system of honours. Although people were still recognised, the titles of Dames and Sirs were abolished. The National Government later reinstated the titles. I recall it being a tad uncomfortable for those asked if they would now like to take up the title of Dame or Sir.
I was grateful they were reintroduced because I was concerned that if no more Dames were forthcoming then, heaven help me, in my dotage I would be on the verge of becoming extinct.
Some of my fondest memories have been at Government House receptions. To be among inspiring and exemplary New Zealanders from all walks of life reminds us of the greatness and goodness of Kiwis. The Governor-General is equal in his honouring of all people. I was always humbled by the citations that accompanied people who had given life-long service to their particular cause.
While the captains of industry and the sporting champions line up, it is the men and women who have devoted 40 years to the Scout movement or delivered meals on wheels since they could drive that really open your eyes.
The process is open to anyone; it might seem it is a list compiled by Government ministers, but you can nominate anyone, although you can't nominate yourself.
Some may remember Keith Loasby, a well-known local resident, who travelled great distances on his mobility scooter soliciting signatures to support his nominations.
So while I may not personally know the other locals who have received honours aside from Frank, I am delighted that they have been recognised. The ceremony will be one of those life-long memories that you will share with your family and friends who will bask in the reflected glory. Sadly, the guest list is limited so choosing the nearest and dearest is often the hardest part.
So you will receive a beautiful citation from the Queen, signed simply "Elizabeth R" and a medal. Sadly, I have never quite found the occasion to wear mine.
And you would have had to keep this a secret but now the whole world knows and we can all share in your acknowledgement.
We understand that an award and/or recognition is not your motivation, but celebrate the achievement and accept it as whole community thank you.
We also thank those who took the time and effort to nominate you.
So to Ngaire Guy, Gregory Jenks, Margaret Rex-Benner and Brian Palmer - congratulations.