A former mayor and a car dealer – both from Liverpool – are the only two recipients from the entire outer South West Sydney region of 2024 Order of Australia honours.
The former mayor is Wendy Waller (pictured above), who served on Liverpool Council from 1995 until her retirement in 2021.
She received an OAM for services to Liverpool Council and the local community.
The car dealer is Paul Warren, son of another Liverpool legend, the late Peter Warren.
Mr Warren received his OAM for services to the South West Sydney community.
He is currently the executive director of Peter Warren Automotive Holdings, a position he has held since 2021.
Between 1982 and 2021 he was chairman and chief executive officer.
He has been working in the company founded by his father since 1975.
Mr Warren has been board member of the Salvation Army Red Shield appeal committee, Western Sydney, since 2013.
He sponsored Liverpool Boys High School during 2011-2016, and the Liverpool Hospital Cancer Therapy Centre since 2012.
Mr Warren has been a foundation partner of the South West Sydney Institute since 2018.
He is also a supporter of the Miracle Babies Foundation and Rotary Club of Cabramatta.
Wendy Waller, who represented the Australian Labor Party, served as mayor of Liverpool twice, in 2008-2012 and 2016-2021, bringing stability to the post.
She also served as chair of the Community Safety and Crime Prevention Committee, 2016-2021, Liverpool Access Committee at the same time, Strategic Panel, 2016-2021, the 2168 District Forum, 2016-2021, Tourism and CBD Committee, 2017-2021 and the Companion Animal Advisory Committee, 2020-2021.
Ms Waller has been the ambassador of the 2168 Children’s Parliament since 2017.
She is also a former manager of the South West Child Adolescent and Family Services.
Congratulations to both these great community members who have made a great contribution to the welfare and progress of the council areas . I had the privilege to know Wendy
Unfortunately so many other grass roots activist don’t get the acknowledgment they deserve as volunteers are the glue that keeps our communities together and supports those in need
As an Independent Councillor, I worked with Wendy from 2008 to 2021. During her term as Mayor and later as Lord Mayor, Wendy was outstanding in her fair treatment of all Councillors irrespective of their political allegiance. Wendy made significant positive changes to the Liverpool Community. Her more than 20 years of service left Liverpool in a better state than she found it.
Congratulations Wendy Waller, a well deserved award.