SI Karratha & Districts Shire of Roebourne Awards 2012

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Shire of Roebourne Awards – Citizen of the Year Nominee –  Arran McOscar

Arran McOscar doesn’t talk about doing things – she gets on and does them without fuss.  As a SAFE volunteer since it’s inception, she has cared for over 200 dogs and puppies, and takes them on in emergency situations at a moment’s notice.

In 2011 Arran became ‘the first contact-of-kindness’ for many animals, some in appalling condition and tick infested.  She is the one who collects dogs from the Shire Rangers, or negligent owners.

She feeds them, removes ticks, and bathes them in her hydro bath.  She then takes the dogs to SAFE for a photo-shoot and general intake before they go to a carer; or she takes them to the airport to be flown to Perth to be de-sexed; or, she becomes their carer!

Arran’s commitment to SAFE, reflects her ‘passion for community inclusion’ and is demonstrated by her active and consistent participation over the past 20 years.  She’s been a player, referee and co-ordinator for Karratha Basketball; Millars Well Primary School P&C member and organiser-extraordinaire; and injected her drive and enthusiasm into Soroptimists projects.  In 2010 Arran became a volunteer gardener at the RSL.

During 2011, Arran arranged guest speakers for the very popular Soroptimist “Speaking Personally” dinners; and instigated the Sunday Monthly Markets.  “I just want to bring back some community spirit, and create space for families to have fun,” Arran says.

In addition to creating community spirit, the Monthly Markets provide an opportunity for artisans, home-based business, and sporting and service clubs, to be seen, to serve, and to fund-raise.  Millars Well P&C coffers swelled by over $1000 in the four months Arran has run the Markets

13 years ago, as a mum with a toddler, Arran had breast cancer. She elected to ‘have it off and get on with life’. It is testament to her positive ‘can do’ approach, and the support of her many friends, that she was back playing sport 6 weeks later. She is incredibly empowered and has helped many others to get on with their lives in acceptance and gratitude.

It is easy to look up to this down-to-earth lady.  She has been a single mum for 10 years, and has shown our community what can be achieved, and the joy and friendships that develop, through the act of volunteering.  Arran is an amazing role model.