Sean Cunningham, Narrandera Argus
Narrandera Shire Council Mayor Neville Kschenka is no stranger to being in the limelight given the position he holds in local government, but his status was elevated on Australia Day.
For Narrandera locals, Sunday was a day to come together, to enjoy a barbecue and celebrate a shared pride in being an Australian, but this year was extra special for Cr Kschenka.
He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his years of service to local government and to the community of Narrandera in this year’s national Australia Day awards.
Being the town’s mayor since 2016, Cr Kschenka has led the town with dedication, facing every decision, every project and challenge with the community’s best interests at heart.
Cr Kschenka said he was unaware of who had nominated him for the prestigious award, but ruled out a family member.
Being acknowledged for his personal contributions to the town, Cr Kschenka admitted it was a special occasion receiving such an accolade and said he accepted the award on behalf of those who had played key roles in his political and volunteering career.
Some of those people included council staff and other councillors who he paid tribute to, saying they “really do try their best, to get the best outcomes for the community”.
He emphasised the importance of having a helping hand from family members, friends and other volunteer colleagues who had worked alongside him in numerous volunteer efforts he had been involved with.
“Certainly, my family, especially my wife Carmel, have worked alongside me and have been a big help to me,” he said.
“I was quite overwhelmed receiving the award really. It’s certainly an honour. It’s quite humbling.”
Cr Kschenka’s tenure as mayor has seen him advocating for health resources and important grants, improving local infrastructure, as well as fostering partnerships in a bid to boost regional tourism.
More than just a leader in local government, Cr Kschenka has played the part of a volunteer over five decades, since his first foray into fundraising in the late 1960s.
“It goes back to 1967 when I was the lead guitarist and vocal harmonies in a band called The Bandits,” Cr Kschenka said.
“We raised $200 for the Tasmanian Bushfire Appeal at the time. I think over 40 people perished in those bushfires.
“It might not sound like a lot of money to raise, but the normal wage might have been about a maximum of $50 a week at the time.”
As Cr Kschenka reflected on a notable Australia Day for himself, he also noted the townsfolk and those who were visiting Narrandera also shared in the joy of being an Australian during the day’s activities.
“It was a great day,” he said.
“There were a lot of deserving volunteers recognised.
“Our ambassador Emma Rossi (former television presenter and women’s rights campaigner) thought it was really good too. She went out to Barellan as well and enjoyed that.”
Some of Cr Kschenka’s more noteworthy roles in the community have included:
- Councillor, 1988-1991 and since 2012.
- Council representative Sesquicentenary Planning, Lake Talbot and Environs, Arts and Community Centre, current.
- Council representative John O’Brien Bush Festival Organising Committee, current.
- Council representative Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation since 2016.
- Foundation Committee member Rockin’ On East since 2014.
- Foundation member Narrandera Business Group since 2012.
- Member Narrandera Business Group, current.
- Narrandera Chamber of Commerce Chairman early-1990s.
- Owner/Operator, Custom Music since 1982.
- A range of roles in the automotive industry 15 years.
This article appeared in the Narrandera Argus, 30 January 2025.