The late Spiro John Notaras, who passed away on January 9, was named as an OAM recipient in the Australia Day honours list for his “service to the community of Grafton”. Mr Notaras’ noted community service included: president of South Grafton Rotary Club, 1973, and member until 1985; supporter of a range of local charity and educational organisations including: Grafton Primary Public School; wood chopping, Grafton Agricultural Show; Northern Rivers Woodworking Association; Grafton Men’s Shed; Special Children’s Christmas Party; and, Westpac Helicopter Service. Mr Notaras was also recognised for his involvement in the restoration of the Saraton Theatre and his work in the timber industry. He was the general manager of Notaras Timbers from 1952 to 2015; and was president of the Executive Council of the New South Wales Forest Products Association in 2003-2004. A member since 1966, he also held the position of chairman of the Richmond Tweed Clarence branch. Mr Notaras had previously been awarded: Best Heritage Restoration Award, New South Wales Section, National Trust Australia, 2011; and, a Federal Minister’s Award for Excellence for Employers of New Apprentices in 2004.