Lilian “Lil” Ries (OAM) of Northmead
Lilian “Lil” Ries (OAM) of Northmead was recognised for her volunteer work at Ronald McDonald House at Westmead.
She decided to volunteer at Ronald McDonald House, which provides a home away from home for seriously sick children and their families, while she saw it being built and told her husband she would like to volunteer as soon as it opened.
Her son Peter said his mum was one of the first volunteers.
“She would make the beads, wash up and bring sewing home. She would do whatever was needed.”
Lil loved volunteering and only stopped in her 90s. She was so respected that when she turned 100 in July last year her family held her 100th birthday celebrations at Ronald McDonald House.
Her family (she has 3 sons, 9 grandchildren and 14 great, grandchildren) are very proud that she has been honoured for her volunteering.
They will be joining her for Australia Day celebrations at her home.
Other major recipients named in the Australia Day Honours by the Governor General include
Paralympian and former Castle Hill Swimming Coach (Castle Hill Fitness and Aquatic Centre from 2013 to 2018) Ellie Cole.
Ellie who has an OAM was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to sport as an advocate for diversity and inclusion. also appointed AMs are Professor Glenda Wardle from Cherrybrook for her work in the field of science and in particular evolutionary biology and Dr Michael Leigh from Pennant Hills for significant service to tertiary education, and to Australian-Asian relations.
