Twenty years ago the doors to Warburton’s Community Bank branch opened with Ian De La Rue being a driving force on the committee to establish the bank as well as serving as the first chairman from 1999-2005.
Today the bank continues to honour Ian’s commitment and contribution with the annual Ian De La Rue Youth Initiative Award.
Each year the branch seeks to recognise, acknowledge and reward a young person who makes a positive contribution to their community. This $1000 Award is presented in the spirit of the late Ian De La Rue’s commitment to the community as a recipient of the Order of Australia Medal in 2008.
Warburton’s Community Bank Branch aims to encourage Ian’s passion for encouraging young people to strive for excellence and to be active in and contribute to their local community.
Regarded as one of Upper Yarra’s most respected and loved community leaders, Ian was involved in a long list of organisations outside of the Community Bank. Those which benefited from his involvement include and are not limited to the Winterfest Committee, Warburton Chamber of Commerce, Warburton Advancement League, Warburton Bowls Club and Warburton Millgrove Football Club.
Since its inception in 2012 the award has seen a great mix of Award recipients with varied activities and passions.
Warburton Community Bank Branch are looking for a person under the age of 25, who live, work or have a close connection to the Upper Yarra area and has made or continues to make a positive contribution to the community for the benefit of others.
The winner will be announced at the Annual General Meeting of Upper Yarra Community Enterprise on Wednesday 18 November.
Nominations are now open and forms and further details can be found at www.upperyarra.net.au/youth
