AFTER serving the Penola and Coonawarra community for over 50 years, former publican John Heyward was recognised for his efforts with the Wattle Range Council’s Riddoch Ward citizen of the year award on Saturday.
Taking over the Royal Oak Hotel in 1966 from his father, Mr Heyward poured his last schooner in 2018.
“A true gentleman and Penola icon” in the words of Riddoch Ward councillor Rick Paltridge, Mr Heyward has left a lasting impact on the community.
“John is the kind of quiet achiever that often gets overlooked in a community,” Cr Paltridge said.
“Modest and humble, he has helped many people out in troubled times without any recognition.
“After years of service at the Royal Oak Hotel, it is now his time to be awarded for his tireless work in the region.”
A life member and patron of the Penola Football Club, Mr Heyward has also been a sponsor of the town’s netball, bowls and golf clubs, the Penola Coonawarra Arts Festival and Nangwarry Football Club.
In addition, he has been a major contributor to sculptures in Penola that commemorate important figures in the town’s history.
“I have lived my entire life in Penola and will continue to do so,” Mr Heyward said.
“It is an honour to receive this award and I thank Wattle Range Council, the Penola Lions Club and my nominator for making it possible.
“I have provided hospitality for sometimes five or six generations of families during my time at the Royal Oak.
“It might have only been a raspberry to a one-year-old but it all adds up – it’s a wonderful community to be part of and I cannot imagine living in a better place.”
