Ian Battersby is a recipient of the Bega Valley Shire Community Service Medallion for 2015.
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He was nominated for a medallion for the way in which he has improved the lives of many older inhabitants of Merimbula and Tura Beach.
Mr Battersby came to Merimbula in 2005 after his retirement as a sound engineer and has been an active member of the local community.
He joined Spectrum Theatre Group in 2008 and managed sound production for eight shows spanning four years.
He also improved the Twyford Hall sound system, recorded and post-produced the soundtrack for the DVD of the Prix d’Amour musical.
In 2012, he recorded the Merimbula Centenary Anthem by local composer Paul Dion and provided CDs for various groups to play during the centenary celebrations.
He has managed the Merimbula Imlay Historical Society’s website and recorded many oral history CDs for the museum archives and takes photographs of their displays for posting online.
Mr Battersby also provides clerical assistance for the Bega Valley Parkinson’s support group by formatting their monthly newsletter and offering technical support for their meetings.
However, it is for his lessons and advice to many seniors in the region that has brought greatest praise.
As one of his nominators said: “Ian has been a wonderful help in assisting me to learn the ins and outs of the computer world. Growing older means a shortening of the list of what we are able to do. Being computer-wise with the wonderful help of Ian has opened up a new world for me and many elderly others”.