A hero 18-time grandfather from Inverell has been named the 2018 NSW Grandparent of the Year, ahead of Grandparents Day this Sunday.
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Warwick Bedford received the accolade at an awards ceremony in Parliament House today, accompanied by his 15-year-old grandson Jonathan Roberts.
A surprised and humbled Mr Bedford said he was grateful to be able to spend time with his grandkids, have fun and provide guidance to them for their journey ahead in life.
“I feel very privileged to be recognised for doing my job as a grandparent,” Mr Bedford said.
“Just like all the grandparents out there, I care for my loved ones and pass on wisdom when I can. These awards are an important way to acknowledge all of the wonderful grandparents out there, who in many cases are the glue that keep families together.”
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Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall personally congratulated Mr Bedford.
“I am thrilled Warwick’s efforts to care for his loved ones and his strong involvement in the Inverell community has been recognised publicly,” Mr Marshall said.
“Warwick is an inspiration and I want to thank him and all of the other seniors in our community who make such a huge a difference in their families and in our communities.
“Warwick is a carer to his wife and a hero to his grandchildren. He is involved in many aspects of the lives of his 18 grandchildren, including volunteering with Auskick, Air Cadets and at their local schools, as well as fundraising for sports events, especially local AFL.”
Mr Marshall said grandparents like Warwick selflessly dedicate their time and energy to make communities better and their volunteering, sharing of knowledge, and support for families across the state should be commended.
“Warwick is one of the thousands of seniors in NSW that give back to their loved ones and the community. I encourage everyone to celebrate a special senior to show their gratitude this Sunday for Grandparents Day.”
The Inverell Shire Council will host a superhero-themed Grandparents Day afternoon tea this Sunday, October 28. Held at the Town Hall from 2pm-4pm, bookings are essential to the council on 6728 8288.