Riversdale Stalwart Honoured With Service Award

JD (John) Miller, a long-standing and much-respected member of the Riversdale community, has received a Community Service Award in recognition of his decades of service across a wide range of local organisations.

The Southland District Council and Ardlussa Community Board presented the award at a special ceremony. Southland Mayor Rob Scott paid tribute to Mr Miller’s exceptional efforts. “This community wouldn’t be the same without people like JD who take real ownership of it and lead by example,” he said.

Mr Miller has lived in Riversdale all his life and contributed to many aspects of the town’s life — from sport to essential services and community leadership. Among his most long-standing roles was his 50-year commitment as sexton of the Riversdale Cemetery Trust, a role he only recently stepped down from.

In a light-hearted moment during the ceremony, Mr Miller told Mayor Scott, “I want your job next,” before briefly wearing the mayoral chains himself.

Mr Miller’s contributions extend to his time in the RSA. After completing compulsory military training as a teenager, he joined the organisation in 1993. He later served as president of the Riversdale branch and as parade marshal for 10 years. He was awarded life membership in 2012.

His love of rugby saw him play for 21 years, then move into refereeing, coaching, and administration. He served as president of the Northern Southland Rugby Union and held the role of club secretary three times. He was made a life member of the club in 2009. Reflecting on his rugby days, he said, “It was a terrific time to play rugby. You got to play with and against All Blacks.”

Mr Miller has also been involved in maintaining the grounds for the Riversdale Combined Sports Association for over 30 years. As a St John medic for the local rugby club, he served for 21 years and received a brother title for his efforts. “I joined St John with my wife Doreen as it was something we could do together. I used to carry the bag but Doreen did all the thinking,” he said.

His service to the Riversdale, Waikaia and Wendon Presbyterian churches has spanned more than three decades, including 20 years as treasurer.