You may recall from our 15th February Grapevine edition, the announcement of Peta’s OAM award for services to Australian Orienteering and to services to the Steels Creek Community. Last Friday, Peta made her way to Government House to receive her award.
“My BIG day, Friday 19th April 2024
Last Friday was the ‘Investiture for the Presentation of Australian Honours and Awards’. I was fortunate to have been nominated and accepted for the Medal of the Order of Australia, General Division (OAM) 2024.
Unbeknown to me, some 4 years ago, an idea was moulded and people contacted for their support to have me nominated for an OAM. I had no idea, until late 2023 when I needed to accept my nomination! It was all “don’t tell anyone”!
In total, there were 94 Awards presented at Government House, Melbourne, of which 58 were OAM’s. The Presentation ran like clockwork with staff to guide you every step of the way. Interestingly the presentations were done alphabetically – so I had a while to wait! I was 51st, with 7 people after me. As I took my allocated seat, the woman next to me said “You must be a ‘W’…..!
I was allowed 4 guests, I was proudly joined by husband, daughter, son, and long time teaching friend. So Friday 19th April will always remain a day of being very privileged and honoured, with very happy memories of working with so many good Communities and Orienteering groups. Peta Whitford”
Congratulations Peta, from us all in the Valley.
Peta, with her medal
Peta’s official OAM Certificate
Peta with longtime friend, son, and husband
