Carmel Ward Receives Prestigious Freeman of City Honour in Joondalup
Carmel Ward, a dedicated volunteer from Duncraig with more than two decades of service to numerous community organisations and student mentoring programs, has been bestowed with the City of Joondalup's highest accolade. Ms Ward has been formally inducted as a Freeman of the City, joining an elite group of individuals celebrated for their profound and lasting contributions to the Joondalup community.
Mentoring and Community Leadership
For nearly 13 years, Ms Ward has served as a trusted mentor at Greenwood College, initially through EdConnect Australia and later with the Lions Club. She is widely admired for her calm and patient demeanour, which has enabled her to forge meaningful connections with young people, especially those facing trauma or disengagement from school and society.
In addition to her educational efforts, Ms Ward has been a pivotal figure in the Duncraig Lions Club for 15 years, taking on countless roles that include leadership positions and coordinating initiatives that support youth and the broader community. Since 2021, she has also been an active member of the management committee for the Marmion, Sorrento, Duncraig Progress and Ratepayers Association, currently holding the positions of treasurer and membership officer.
Environmental and Advocacy Work
Ms Ward's commitment extends to environmental protection and local advocacy. She is a founding member of the Friends of Duncraig Library Bushland and has long been involved in safeguarding local bushland, organising community events, and championing neighbourhood causes. Her multifaceted service has left an indelible mark on the region.
Recognition from City Officials
Joondalup Mayor Daniel Kingston praised Ms Ward's contributions as extraordinary, noting that the city is honoured to recognise her with this prestigious award. He emphasised that her influence will resonate for many years to come, stating, Carmel Ward represents the very best of community service with her generosity, leadership and unwavering commitment to helping others, having enriched our city in ways that are both significant and enduring.
Mr Kingston added, Her work spans generations, from mentoring young people to supporting seniors, strengthening community groups and protecting local bushland. Carmel's legacy is one of compassion, integrity and unwavering dedication to others, and her work has strengthened our community in countless ways.
Previous Accolades and Fellow Honourees
Ms Ward's service has been recognised with multiple awards, including the City of Joondalup senior citizen of the year for 2019 and the Fremantle Lions Club community service award for 2023. She now joins other distinguished individuals who have been named Freeman of the City of Joondalup, a title reserved for exceptional circumstances. This esteemed group includes Margaret Cockman, Nick Trandos, Bill Marwick, Brian Cooper, Mike Norman, Pamela Beggs, and Cheryl Edwardes.
