Three Clarence women were recognised by Clarence MP Chris Gulaptis at his Grafton electorate office on Friday for their volunteer work as the latest additions to the Rural Women’s Hidden Treasures Honour Roll. “Just 90 NSW women have been recognised in this year’s Honour Roll for the valuable volunteer work they do across NSW and it is extraordinary that three of them are from the Clarence Valley,” Mr Gulaptis said. “Sadly, Mrs Thelma Hodgson of Copmanhurst passed away recently. I salute the courage of her daughter Margaret who was here on her late mum’s behalf.” “Thelma spent her life helping her fellow Australians. May she rest in peace.” “Marea Buist arrived in Yamba 17 years ago and immediately started having a positive impact on the seaside community.” “Among many other achievements, Marea is key to the revival and success of the Yamba Museum.” Mr Gulaptis said that Denise Slingsby, the third nominee on the Honour Roll would be well known to anyone who had anything to do with Grafton’s Jacaranda Festival. “Denise has been involved in looking after Festival queen candidates for nearly forty years and has coached, reassured and consoled young women through the process with great compassion and strength,” Mr Gulaptis said. “There is no financial reward for joining the Honour Roll and none is sought. But it is very important that women who serve our community so tirelessly are recognised,” Mr Gulaptis concluded.