Two extraordinary commitments to volunteering in Townsville have been recognised at today’s Senior of the Year Awards.
Pamela Redfern and Richard Hosking have been awarded for selflessly giving their time and effort to help make Townsville an inclusive place to live for locals and creatures great and small.
Mayor Jenny Hill said it was an honour to recognise the hard work of both recipients.
“Pamela has been volunteering with RSPCA Queensland for more than 18 years as a carer and ambulance driver. In her time with the organisation, she has fostered more than 400 Townsville animals, including taking the time to bottle-feed injured wildlife around the clock,” Cr Hill said.
“Pamela also helps the RSPCA to transport animals up to Cairns or down to Mackay and sews blankets for kittens, pouches for orphaned joeys and cage covers for larger animals.
“This is a remarkable effort and I’m pleased we’re able to recognise the important volunteer work that Pamela has been doing.
“We’re also awarding Richard for his commitment to Stable on the Strand. Each month, Richard spends many hours making sure Stable on the Strand goes off without a hitch for the 40,000 visitors it attracts at Christmastime.
“Stable on the Strand is a cornerstone of the Townsville festive season and it’s no small feat to pull off. This is extra volunteer work that he puts in on top of his role on the Pastoral Care Team at Uniting Church.”
Community and Cultural Development Committee chairperson Ann-Maree Greaney said the two award winners had made lasting impacts on the Townsville community.
“These are outstanding citizens who help make Townsville a more vibrant and inclusive place to live, while providing much-needed volunteer services for our city,” she said.
“Senior citizens are an important part of the fabric of our community and Seniors Week is a great way to recognise the extraordinary way these members of society sacrifice their spare time for the betterment of Townsville.”
