Reward for Chamber dedication

Two Bunbury men have been rewarded with Bunbury Chamber of Commerce and Industries life memberships for their years of service to the business community.

Clive Young and Laurence Connolly received the honours at the BCCI’s President’s dinner on October 3.

Chamber president Steve Down presented Mr Young and Mr Connolly with the highest accolade which can be bestowed on a member of an organisation.

‘‘It was with pleasure the Bunbury Chamber of Commerce awarded life memberships to Clive Young and Laurence Connolly in recognition of their dedication and contribution to our chamber,’’ Mr Down said.

‘‘And it was with great pleasure that I presented the awards to both gentlemen at the dinner.’’

Mr Down said the men had a long history of commitment to the business community.

Mr Connolly said he was surprised to receive his life membership.

‘‘It’s a great honour and I’m very delighted,’’ he said.

Mr Connolly became a member of the South West Club in 2000 and was involved in its merger with the chamber in 2003.

'‘I have been secretary since I joined 12 years ago,’’ he said.

‘‘I enjoy my role within the chamber because it keeps me in touch with local people and topics and I get to meet interesting people.’’

Mr Down said Mr Connolly was a true gentleman and the chamber valued his contribution to the organisation.

Mr Young said he was delighted and surprised when he received his life membership.

‘‘It’s a nice local achievement and it is nice to be acknowledged,’’ he said.

Mr Down said as a lawyer, Mr Young had attended to the chamber’s legal needs over the years.

‘‘I have personally known Clive all of my working life and have always held him in high regard,’’ he said.

Chamber chief executive Ray Philp said a lot of thought went into the decision.

‘‘It certainly was a significant decision that was made to give them the life memberships,’’ he said