LOCAL volunteer Margaret Winterfield has received state recognition for her decades of service at the Mount Gambier Returned and Services League.
“Margie”, as she is affectionately known in the community, was awarded the 2018 Premier’s Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Volunteer Service for her invaluable work and significant achievements as a volunteer.
“The award was unexpected and a bit of a surprise, but I’m happy for the women’s auxiliary because without them I would not be here,” she told The Border Watch.
The Mount Gambier RSL Women’s Auxiliary president for the past 27 years, Margie is no stranger to “doing her duty”.
“I started in the old RSL building at the Main Corner and became women’s auxiliary president after 10 months,” she said.
“By the late 1990s we moved to the new premises on Sturt Street, where I still work to this day.
“It’s a full-time job, but I love doing it.
“I’ll keep on going until they kick me out.”
Margie said she joined the RSL because she recognised a need among veterans.
Having been married to a Vietnam War veteran, Margie had a special insight into the effects of war on soldiers and other members of society who served their countries.
“They needed our help and support and I thought I could do something to assist them,” she said.
“I saw many changes during my time at the RSL, but for me veterans should always come first.”
Margie’s late husband Robert Winterfield passed away three years ago.
He served in the 5th Royal Australian Regiment during the Vietnam War and was Mount Gambier RSL president in 1989/90.
“I still come to work happily every day and do what I have to do,” she said.
In addition to the RSL, Margie has been a member of the Mount Gambier Caledonian Society for 42 years.
She served as society secretary for 36 years and has been chief for the past eight years.
She is also a life member of the RSL Blue Lake Highland Pipe Band and has been an RSL committee member for the past eight years.
RSL president Robert Sandow said he put Margie’s name forward for the award because of her “selfless service to the community through the RSL”.
“She immediately came to mind after all those years of service – an award well deserved,” Mr Sandow said.
