When Jonathan Heathcote's son asked to be taught about robotics and programming, he was happy to oblige.
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"He wanted to learn about robotics and asked, 'You're an engineer, why don't you teach me?'" Mr Heathcote said.
But little did he realise that his lessons would quickly grow into a club - Metal Minds Robotics Inc in Launceston - as more and more children became interested.
The club takes young people to Sydney every year, and Mr Heathcote now mentors judges for the Tasmanian competitions, which the club hosted last year. Metal Minds has even expanded to Devonport.
Mr Heathcote's work was recognised at the Volunteer Recognition Awards in Launceston on Tuesday in the community, health and education category, where he joined a range of dedicated locals.
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A legend of the local airwaves
Chris Sayer became a contributor to community radio in Launceston in 1978 - eight years before City Park Radio was formed.
And he's stayed with the station ever since, presenting many programs including Reelin' in the Years, and serving as president and vice-president.
Since retirement, Mr Sayer has become involved in sports broadcasts along with his program The Hot Seat.
He was given a volunteer award in the arts, culture and heritage category.
Half a century of volunteering
Gaye Anderson was a founding member of the Tasmanian National Dance Association in 1968 and continues to volunteer her time with Highland dancing, organising competitions in her role as secretary.
From booking venues and arranging travel for interstate and overseas adjudicators, to doing usher work and taking money at the door, Ms Anderson is a genuine stalwart of Tasmanian Highland dancing.
She also finds time to volunteer at The Old Umbrella Shop, Meals on Wheels and at Woolmers Estate.
Ms Anderson received a volunteer award in arts, culture and heritage, and community, health and education.
Tackling plastic pollution in Launceston
Trish Haeusler saw that something needed to be done to address plastic pollution, and launched Plastic Free Launceston with an initial Plastic Free July.
It was so popular the movement quickly grew in schools, community groups and with UTAS.
Ms Haeusler helps to run bag-making workshops, organises events and is the group's media spokesperson. PFL has since become a working group of Tamar NRM.
Her volunteer work was awarded in the category of environment, conservation and animal welfare.
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Dedication to Girl Guides
Margaret Duggan's commitment to Girl Guides in Launceston is second to none - she has served as a leader, division commissioner, deputy state commissioner and on numerous committees.
Most recently, her volunteer work as chair of the local hall committee has helped to ensure a safe and appropriate venue for Guiding in Launceston.
Ms Duggan has been a mentor to countless Girl Guides and continues to ensure its future in Launceston.
She was awarded in the volunteer category of community, health and education.
Saving the cats of Launceston
Five years ago, and with no legislation to enforce responsible cat ownership in Tasmania, a group of volunteers decided something needed to be done.
They formed Just Cats, a shelter for stray, abandoned and unwanted cats and kittens.
Since then, the shelter has rehomed 5000 cats and recently added a new shelter at Mowbray.
Just Cats received a volunteer award in the environment, conservation and animal welfare category.
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Congratulations to all volunteers
Other volunteers in Launceston were also recognised with certificates, including:
- Patricia Ann Hollier for volunteer work with the Dilston Memorial Hall
- Jack Willis for volunteer work in running events
- Peter Masters for volunteer work with Tamar Valley Vixens and the Launceston rugby community
- David Mohr for his volunteer work as a sports broadcaster
- Maria Elena Chagoya for her volunteer work with the Latin American Film Festival
- Debbie Brumby for her volunteer work with AFS
- School for Seniors for providing an important service to the seniors community
- Stephanie Rigby for her volunteer work at the Northern Suburbs Community Centre