Wee Waa’s Roxanne Whitton and Steve Eather, of Baan Baa and Boggabri fame, were announced joint winners of the Narrabri Shire’s 2024 Senior of the Year Award at a ceremony held last week.
The country champions are two shining examples of how advocates from small communities can punch well above their weight when it comes to making a difference.
Both local heroes have an endless energy and tireless dedication that challenges what some might consider the word ‘senior’ to mean, as Mrs Whitton and Mr Eather show no sign of slowing down and are unstoppable in their service to the community.
Mrs Whitton and Mr Eather were nominated alongside some wonderful and worthy Narrabri Shire residents including Annie Lampe, Robyn Keeffe, Jill Baguley and Yvonne Lloyd.
All deserving, and all carry out their contributions without fuss or fanfare.
Mrs Whitton, who is affectionately known as Roxy, brightens everyone’s day – in fact, the everlasting impact of her friendly, humorous, and welcoming attitude is difficult to put into words, but NSC mayor Darrell Tiemens did a commendable job trying.
Read more about Roxanne Whitton here: Wee Waa’s Roxanne Whitton announced joint winner of the Narrabri Shire’s 2024 Senior of the Year Award – The Courier (narrabricourier.com.au)
Cr Tiemens described joint Senior of the Year winner Mr Eather as ‘a silent force within the community, a leader whose contributions to various community groups are so extensive that enumerating them becomes a challenging task”.
Read more about Steve Eather here: Steve Eather announced joint winner of the Narrabri Shire’s 2024 Senior of the Year Award – The Courier (narrabricourier.com.au)
Cr Tiemens praised the exceptional line-up of nominees at the Seniors Festival lunch and said it brought him ‘immense joy and honour’ to celebrate the invaluable contributions and wisdom of our senior citizens: “This gathering is a testament to the rich tapestry of experiences, knowledge, and stories that form the very foundation of our community.
“The Narrabri Shire Seniors Festival award ceremony is held annually, and it recognises the significant role seniors play in our community and their invaluable contributions.”
Cr Tiemens gave a glowing snapshot of the other nominees, describing Jill Baguley’s ‘unwavering devotion’ as a caring and skilled nurse and explaining how Mrs Baguley “consistently goes above and beyond, embodying a selfless spirit”.
“Jill is nominated for her lifelong commitment to aged care in Narrabri, dedicating her entire nursing career to the well-being of the elderly,” said Cr Tiemens.
“Commencing her journey at Narrabri Hospital, Jill has tirelessly served in aged care for over 37 years.
See gallery here: Camera at Seniors Festival 2024 celebrations | Gallery – The Courier (narrabricourier.com.au)
“Her nomination is a tribute to her unwavering devotion to caring for the elderly, demonstrating exceptional compassion and thoughtfulness throughout her career.
“It is individuals like Jill who contribute significantly to the thriving nature of our communities.”
Cr Tiemens said Robyn Keeffe was nominated for her “dedication to various organisations and community groups within the Narrabri Shire.
“Operating diligently, often in the background, she consistently goes the extra mile to assist the most vulnerable members of our communities with unparalleled care, compassion, dignity, and respect,” he said. Her can-do attitude, selflessness, and willingness to sacrifice her time shine through as she actively supports programs and committees aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals in our shire.
“Serving as the president of the board at Narrabri and District Community Aid Service, she exemplifies leadership, and her role as president of the Wee Waa Community Arts and Cultural Centre has been indispensable.”
Narrabri’s Annie Lampe is a familiar face to many, always supporting others with her kind nature and she is also quick to put her hand up, without hesitation, to help with events and happenings across the shire.
“Annie is a dedicated member of the community, generously volunteering her time,” said Cr Tiemens.
More than a decade ago, Annie and a fabulous group of friends started the Killarney Bike Classic, with a mission to raise funds for local cancer patients and support services.
The event honoured the memory of Annie’s late husband Mark, who loved cycling from Killarney Gap to Sawn Rocks.
“Annie’s commitment extends beyond the Killarney Bike Classic, as she actively volunteers her time with different groups including Arts National Narrabri, Riding for the Disabled, Meals on Wheels, and the hospital canteen since its inception.”
Cr Tiemens praised nominee Yvonne Lloyd for volunteering at St Vincent de Paul, Meals on Wheels and for being a ‘significant contributor’ to the Wee Waa Pony Club camps.
“Her outstanding sewing skills have left a lasting impression on local schools, dance groups, and individuals requiring last-minute alterations,” said Cr Tiemens.
“Beyond her artistic talents, Yvonne is recognised for her culinary proficiency and has generously assisted with funeral wakes and supported grieving families.
“In challenging times like floods, she has gone the extra mile by providing homemade meals for SES volunteers and relief efforts.
“Yvonne’s exceptional contributions stand out for their selflessness; she never seeks recognition or expects anything in return. Her authentic compassion and sincere desire to make a positive impact truly distinguish her within the community.”
Attendees cheered and gave a round of applause to all the nominees and winners before enjoying a delicious lunch at the RSL club.
Organisers said they received an ‘overwhelming response’ to the Seniors Festival event, hosted by council and held in partnership with local and aged care service providers. There was a ‘mini–aged care expo’ set-up at the RSL where professionals could connect with attendees and answer questions.
Cr Tiemens said the 2024 Seniors Festival theme was ‘Reach Beyond’.
“As we honour our seniors, we also reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that their golden years are filled with dignity, respect, and joy,” he said. It is incumbent upon us, as a community, to provide the support and resources necessary to empower our seniors to live life to the fullest.
“Thanks, and gratitude to all organisers, volunteers and participants who have made the 2024 Seniors Festival possible.”
Edward Trindall delivered the Welcome to Country at the event.
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