Despite her own ongoing battle with cancer, Rachael Thorpe remains a positive influence in her community and has played a key role in the resurgence of Florey Neighbourhood Watch (NHW), among other efforts.

Rachael’s volunteer work has now been recognised with the presentation of the 2021 NHW ACT Member of the Year Award by ACT Chief Police Officer, Deputy Commissioner Neil Gaughan APM, at the annual NHW ACT Awards held at the Jamison Southern Cross Club.

The Member of the Year Award recognises an individual who has volunteered their time as a member of NHW to empower people and communities through the development of strong and effective partnerships that promote wellbeing within the local community by improving safety and security in ACT neighbourhoods.

NHW ACT president, Laurie Blackall, noted that Rachael had made a “significant contribution to making Florey a safer and more inclusive suburb” by rallying local residents at a time when consistent criminal behaviour had been impacting people.

“This group of residents realised the importance of knowing your neighbour and Rachael’s leadership in this regard led to the resurgence of Florey Neighbourhood Watch,” Mr Blackall said.

Rachael went on to establish the Bizzy Bee Street Library, Little Green Pantry, and the Sprout Spot to support the community, thus playing an important part in rejuvenating community spirit. In August 2019, she was instrumental in securing funds from Belconnen Community Council for six street libraries in Belconnen.

In addition to the street libraries and continuing support for Florey NHW, Rachael attends community forums and took part in the Fabulous Florey Community Fair.

She also helps deliver NHW Newsletters to Florey residences, recently joined the Florey NHW Co-ordinating Team, and is moderator of the very popular NHW Facebook site.