Humble carers earn recognition

All eyes were on Helen Bryant and Tom Preston during the Hilltops Shire Council’s Carer of the Year ceremony at the Young Town Hall as they were recognised for their ongoing dedication to others.

Helen – who is the full-time carer of seven disabled family members – was named Hilltop’s Carer of the Year. She was presented the award by Hilltops Administrator, Wendy Tuckerman, who said Helen was a committed and deserving recipient.

“It’s such a great honour and you’re such a worthy recipient,” Wendy said.

Helen was left speechless upon receiving her award, instead her daughter thanked the person who nominated her mum.

“I’m so proud of my mum, she deserves it,” her daughter said.

Helen said she was shocked to receive the award, adding “I just do it because they’re my family”. 

Fellow carer, Mr Preston, received a Certificate of Recognition for his efforts that allow his wife, Ann, to remain at home.

The pair have been married for 53 years, three of which Mr Preston has provided full-time care for his wife who suffers a number of illnesses. Ann said she is dependent on her husband.

“I’d be lost without him,” she said. “If I didn’t have Tom I’d be in a home, so I’m very grateful to have him and he’s willing to take care of me 24/7.”

Mr Preston said being a carer isn’t something you do for the recognition.

“When you’ve been married for 53 years you just do it – it’s for better or for worse,” he said.

Ms Tuckerman said it’s important as a community to recognise the impact of carers.

“They say one in 10 people are carers and when you look across the figures in Hilltops that’s a significant number who care for others,” she said.

“Normally people don’t like to be recognised for things they do for their loved ones – they don’t think of it as a job, but we as a community need to think – if they weren’t doing it, who would be?

“I’m humbled to be able to present these awards and learn about these special people in our community.”