11 June 2019
His Excellency, Governor Dr Philip Rushbrook and Mrs Rushbrook hosted the annual Garden Party at Plantation House on Saturday, 8 June 2019, to mark the 93rd birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Governor Rushbrook said in his opening remarks:
“HM The Queen has undertaken another busy year of public engagements. She has completed over 125 in the last 12 months, 25% more than the previous one. That is around one engagement every three days …Our celebration today is an opportunity to show our appreciation and admiration for her long, unfailing dedication to public service.
“Here on St Helena, the last year has seen the beginning of a promising new era for the Island. One in which the level of public finances will see a period of stability and greater certainty. An era in which we together have the opportunity to tackle, once and for all, the topics and ways of doing things, about which we are all aware, that hamper our improvement. An era where we have the opportunity to define a new path. A path in which the essential decisions of government can be made are faster,
where accountability comes with the authority to make decisions and confidence to empower and delegate, the public sector delivers services that they are best placed to deliver; and where our businesses, investors and entrepreneurs feel energised to turn ideas into new ventures.”
During the celebrations Governor Rushbrook presented Certificates and Badges of Honour to the following three ladies who, in their respective roles, have made significant contribution to society and public service on St Helena:
Mrs Barbara Ann George for her loyal and dedicated service to the St Helena Government where she served for 36 years; 15 years of which were spent in the teaching profession. Prior to her retirement in December 2018, Mrs George worked in Human Resources for 21 years. Mrs George is also a serving Justice of the Peace and undertakes the role of Secretary to the local Cricket Association where she was instrumental in arranging the first international cricket tournament.
Mrs Marlene Mary Yon for her services to the local community. She is a founding member of the St Helena Cancer Support and Awareness Charity and continues to work tirelessly to support cancer patients and their families. Mrs Yon has also maintained a keen interest in the youth of St Helena through her commitment to the Girl Guide Association which spans over 30 years, serving as a Rainbow Guide Leader, Cub Scout Leader, Vice President and Commissioner. Together with her husband, Mrs Yon runs a small Bed and Breakfast service thus making positive contribution to our unique tourist offering.
Ms Tina Lynette Lucy (better known as Teeny) for her services to the local community where she has used her knowledge and skills to promote local talent and worthy causes. She has served as Chairperson of the SPCA and the Donkey Home. Ms Lucy has drawn on her musical talent and expertise to teach music to individuals, having also taught music at Prince Andrew School. She has also been instrumental in organising concerts and art exhibitions, showing support and enthusiasm whilst encouraging people to reach their full potential.
Saturday, 8 June, was also World Oceans Day. Governor Rushbrook said:
“The vast ocean that surrounds us is impressive by any measure. We are blessed a beautiful environment and pristine water. So it seems fitting that the Queen’s Birthday Party is being held on the same day as World Oceans Day. It is a perfect opportunity to remind ourselves of the important work undertaken by the FCO’s Blue Belt programme, marine agencies and non-Government organisations, SHG and members of our community to keep our ocean clean and sustainable.”
Through demonstrations from SHG’s Marine Conservation team, guests at the Garden Party were able to view the wide range of work that St Helena Government and others are doing to protect our waters.
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SHG
11 June 2019