Nominations are now open for the NSW Carers Awards, Clarence Nationals MP, Chris Gulaptis has announced. Mr Gulaptis said the NSW Carers Awards are an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the significant contribution unpaid or ‘informal’ carers make to the person (or people) they are caring for in the community. “Carers provide many hours of unconditional support to improving the lives of members of our local community. “One in 10 people in NSW dedicate their time to caring for someone who needs care because of disability, mental illness, a chronic health condition, dementia or ageing. “This amazing role is selflessly played by so many in our community and this is a great time to honour these silent heroes. “I’m calling on the local community to nominate an individual or organisation they feel should be recognised for the difference they have made in the lives of a person or people they care for. “Nominating a carer for the NSW Carer’s Awards is a unique way of saying thank you and let local carers and organisations that go above and beyond know they are truly valued,” Mr Gulaptis said. Nominations for the NSW Carers Awards close on 31 August and can be made online atwww.careforacarer.nsw.gov.au. The 2017 Carers Awards will coincide with the year’s Carers Week, which will run from 15-21 October.