Congratulations Doug McKenzie

Doug McKenzie

WESTERWAY man Doug McKenzie won the disability achievement prize in the 2011 Community Achievement Awards on Saturday night. Mr McKenzie won the award from a strong field of nominees and was one of eight category winners announced at the Hotel Grand Chancellor, Launceston.

Mr McKenzie became a paraplegic in 1993 after a back operation. He learnt how to drive a car with the use of hand controls and plays wheelchair basketball to stay fit and remain independent. He has learnt to use computers and technology which is an asset in his long-time volunteer role two days a week at Westerway Primary School.

He is a past member of Paraquad Tasmania, a community volunteer and is actively involved in the Derwent Valley Council Access Advisory Committee, advising on access issues and policy for people with disabilities.

Mr McKenzie was joined at the awards by his wife and daughter, and friends Roger and Julie Triffett. All finalists were presented with certificates and the category winners received a trophy and a $1000 Commonwealth Bank account. The disability achievement award was sponsored by the Motor Accidents Insurance Board (MAIB).

Doug McKenzie with Peter Roche from the MAIB