The fact it would be impossible to count the hours Mairi Dickson has dedicated to the Waikaia community speaks volumes.

Her involvement spans over five decades and stems across all facets of life.

Mrs Dickson’s significant contributions were formally recognised with the presentation of a Community Service Award from Southland District Council and the Ardlussa Community Board last night.

Southland Mayor Rob Scott said he was incredibly proud to bestow the honour.

“People often ask me if the mayoral chains are heavy and I tell them they weigh hardly anything because of the work done in communities by people like Mairi,” he told the big crowd at the Waikaia Hotel on Wednesday night.

“She has been a tireless advocate for both Waikaia and the wider Southland community. The time she’s dedicated to so many organisations and initiatives over the years is absolutely inspiring.

“Her efforts have had a remarkable impact for the community, particularly given the vital role she played in the establishment of the Switzers Waikaia Museum.”

From conception to reality, Mrs Dickson was a key figure in the creation of the museum – a project she embarked on with her mother. Her countless hours of planning, fundraising and project management were crucial to seeing the remarkable asset come to life and she continues to ensure the museum’s success as its current chairperson.

Her service extends across many community spheres where she has taken on pivotal roles such as secretary, treasurer and president in organisations such as the Waikaia Hall Committee, Waikaia Districts Progress League, Waikaia/Riversdale RSA, Waikaia Cemetery Committee and, since 2001, the town’s Red Cross.

In addition, Mrs Dickson has been a first responder for St John since 2008.

Highly respected for her compassionate nature, she has been known to drop everything to drive elderly residents to appointments and, at the opposite end of the generational spectrum, spent many years as school secretary, camp helper and even bus driver for Waikaia School.

In the arts space, Mrs Dickson has been an enthusiastic volunteer with the operatic societies in Gore and Balfour.

A Justice of the Peace, her extensive community involvement has been previously recognised with a Queen’s Service Medal (QSM) and Woman of the Year at the Gore District Community Awards in 2020.

Whether supporting small local events or co-ordinating centennials and large-scale community functions, Mrs Dickson’s willingness to help in any capacity has made her an invaluable stalwart of the region.