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QUESNEL, B.C. - Lynne Wright was named the 2009 Volunteer Citizen of the Year at a banquet Wednesday evening celebrating volunteerism in Quesnel.

Wright is an exceptional community volunteer. Last year she stepped into organize the Billy Barker Days parade, and she's the parade director again this year. Her efforts don't end there. She's very involved with Girl Guides, the United Church, and the Bouchie Lake seniors' lunch. She also helps with the costumes needed for Correlieu school productions, Kersley Musical Theatre and the YES group.

The other nominees, Rose Gaetz, Susan MacNeill and Wilf O'Brien were also applauded by the more than 100 people in attendance for their contributions.

In addition, Mary Glassford was awarded the first Lifetime Achievement Award. Glassford is an exceptional community representative, both in her life as an elected official and as an advocate for many community projects.

"Lynne and Mary are amazing people. If ever there were volunteers worth recognizing, these two fit the bill," said Quesnel Mayor Mary Sjostrom. "Congratulations to all our nominees this year - we truly appreciate all you do to make our community a better place."

"Volunteerism is the backbone of our community," added Quesnel Volunteer of the Year Committee Chair and City Councillor Ron Paull. "Volunteerism brings out the best in us and is definitely worth celebrating. Thanks not only to our winners and nominees, but to all our volunteers in Quesnel."

The Quesnel Volunteer Citizen of the Year program is a joint venture of the City of Quesnel and the Quesnel Cariboo Observer. A committee of past citizens of the year administers the event and judges the nomination packages.