Joint Vision news
Illawarra Champions: celebrating kindness and community
Joint Vision's Moving Forward initiative recognised Natalie Gartshore, Sonia Milgate and Cherie McMahon for their contributions to the Illawarra community.
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December 6, 2025
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Joint Vision
Community news from December 2025. Joint Vision's Moving Forward initiative recognised three Illawarra Champions nominated by people who know their contributions firsthand.
The Champions and their guests were invited to an Illawarra Hawks home game as guests of the Joint Vision Orthopaedic Research Institute. Mark Upton and Jason Blanchard hosted on behalf of Joint Vision.
Recognising our Champions
Natalie Gartshore was recognised for her kindness and community involvement, including her work at Brewing Up a Storm at Warrigal Shell Cove and her participation in tenpin bowling.
Sonia Milgate, a teacher, musical conductor and volunteer, was recognised for her work in the Corrimal community. Her contributions included leading a 100-student choir at the Corrimal RSL Sub Branch Dawn Service and helping organise Carols at Ziems Park.
Cherie McMahon was recognised for her care for others and her move into disability support work. Family members represented Cherie on the night.
Thank you to our community
Thank you to everyone who nominated someone and helped acknowledge the people making a difference across the Illawarra.
Learn more about the Moving Forward initiative and JVORI's research.
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