Community first for 50 years

To most, Terry Semlitzky is a loving husband, sports fanatic and darts champion – to Canterbury-Bankstown he is a charitable companion who has left an inspiring footprint on the local community.

Today, the humble 77-year-old was named the 2020 Canterbury-Bankstown Volunteer of the Year, proving that age is no barrier in supporting the community.

For half a century, the Panania resident has served as an active volunteer in Canterbury-Bankstown through:

“So many people around the area do amazing things, so to have my name up next to them is an unbelievable honour”, he said.

“Having lived in the area my whole life, I love that I have the opportunity to give back to a community that has provided me with so many memories.

“When I started running the charity trivia nights, I did not imagine that we would receive such a huge response. Now, 28 years later we have raised up to $55,000 for the Bill Bullard foundation, and participants from the original event still come along today.

“It doesn’t feel like volunteering when you get so much joy out of it, particularly when the end result is bettering the lives of others.”

Mayor Khal Asfour recognised Terry’s selflessness and long-standing commitment to the local community.

“Terry has achieved some remarkable accomplishments in his 50 years of service and continues to create a happy community for all residents,” he said.

“He is a very worthy candidate for this award and I hope his commitment inspires others to pursue different types of volunteer work."