Dubbo volunteers Dennis Crimmins and Pat Yeo were honoured at the inaugural St Vincent de Paul Society Good Works Summit awards ceremony in Bankstown earlier this month.

More than 300 people watched on as six awards in five categories were presented to members and volunteers associated with St Vincent de Paul NSW at the event on Saturday, October 11.

A member and volunteer for 52 years, Mr Crimmins received the collaborative impact award for ‘collaboration within the Society, leading to impactful, mission-driven outcomes for the community.’

Mr Crimmins has undertaken roles of care and support to those in need, working behind the scenes at the shop and driving the delivery truck. He also coordinates around 350 Christmas food hampers to be sorted, compiled and distributed, and liaises with schools, businesses, workplaces and community groups who generously support the cause and donate food items.

A member and volunteer for over 20 years, Mr Yeo received the outstanding Vincentian Service award for “contributions which reflect the highest ideals of the of the St Vincent de Paul Society, demonstrating a deep and lasting commitment to its mission.”

Mr Yeo has also held executive positions such as Central Council President and Regional President.

Both men have dedicated decades of tireless service to “Vinnies”, embodying the spirit of compassion, justice and community. Their leadership and hands-on support have touched countless lives, offering hope and dignity to those in need, strengthening the Dubbo community and inspired generations of members and volunteers across the region. Through strategic leadership and quiet acts of kindness, Mr Crimmins and Mr Yeo have consistently demonstrated what it means to live out the mission of St Vincent de Paul.

Mr Crimmins was accompanied by his daughter Louise Heaslip and St Brigid’s Conference President, Jan Cameron and her husband John. Mr Yeo was unable to attend and Mrs Cameron proudly accepted the award on his behalf.

“We were so thrilled that both Dennis and Pat were deserving recipients and received statewide acknowledgement,” concluded Mrs Cameron, who had nominated both men.