Photo – Michelle Paterson right handside (© Libby Law Photography)
Congratulations to May’s ESNZ Volunteer of the Month, Michelle Paterson from Dressage Waikato! Michelle is described by Sue Hobson, who nominated her, as “simply brilliant” and a “silent” worker who just gets on and gets things done.
Sue says Michelle is one of those people who works away quietly for our sport as judge, sponsor, writer, area president and treasurer, judges’ officer, event convenor for Dressage Waikato and has probably scored somewhere as well. She is also a member of the ESNZ Dressage Judges’ Sub Committee.
“Michelle is simply brilliant with admin work, she does a lot for me and we talk often about the way the Judges’ Sub Committee works. She is a ‘silent’ worker and always gets things done.
“At the Waikato Combined Equestrian Centre Michelle acts as treasurer, event convenor, chief in charge of funding and provides a constant stream of volunteers by press ganging family into helping out. Over the last six years Michelle’s commitment to developing this community facility has been outstanding, leading the way to financial security for the future of the organisation.”
Michelle makes the time to teach and help out her friends with their horses, manages to squeeze in time for her granddaughter despite travelling regularly in Australia with husband Graeme. Their business Superior Rubber Surfaces has been ESNZ Dressage’s Super 5 League sponsor for many years.
Michelle has an excellent knowledge of dressage, can be relied upon for her sound opinion, is always willing to lend a hand when asked, is cheerful, friendly, efficient, definitely up for a laugh in the event office and a glass of wine with the team at the end of the day.
Thank you so much Michelle for your commitment and invaluable service and for the countless hours of work you do. Your contribution ensures the future viability and ongoing success of dressage.
Our sport is in safe hands with Michelle and our other wonderful volunteers like her who quietly go about the business of sustaining our sport. Next time you are so lucky to be on the receiving end of our volunteers’ generosity, please take a moment to thank them.
ESNZ Volunteer of the Month receives a gift in recognition of their contribution; Michelle’s is on its way to her.
You can nominate your ESNZ Volunteer of the Month by emailing us at [email protected] with Volunteer of the Month in the subject line.
Please provide this information along with a photo of your nominee:
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