News
2 May, 2024
Volunteer recognised for hard work
Passionate Somerset resident, Sue White, has been recognised by Somerset Regional Council for almost 20 years of volunteer service.
The 83-year-old retired from her role as tourism ambassador at the Fernvale Visitor Information Centre after 18 years, due to her family asking her to take a step back from the many community jobs she was doing.
“I would sometimes go 10 days without being home,” Mrs White said.
“It wasn’t until my family said something that I even considered retiring.”
Mrs White has stepped back from three roles, including the visitor centre, giving her more time to pursue her hobbies such as gardening and painting.
Despite being called “invaluable” by Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt, Mrs White maintains she is just “an ordinary old thing” and the recognition she receives is unnecessary, as she is “just stepping down” due to getting older.
“Nothing special about it,” the dedicated volunteer said. Mrs White did say she was overwhelmed with the farewell celebration and enjoyed it, as “it was lovely to see everybody”.
Her work at the Fernvale Visitor Information Centre started after she moved to the region, before the information centre even formally existed.
As a retired tourism agent, she enjoyed still being able to work with tourists and show them around the Wivenhoe Dam and Somerset area.
“Tourism is so important for Somerset,” she said.
“We need more volunteers who can continue servicing the area and help it grow.”
Cr Wendt took the opportunity during council’s meeting on Wednesday, April 24, to recognise the eff orts of Mrs White.
“I had the absolute honour of joining other Somerset Council volunteers and team members in saying thank you to Sue for her dedicated contribution to the region,” Cr Wendt said.
“We will forever be grateful and appreciative of the many hours Sue dedicated and gave to helping Somerset residents and visitors to our beautiful region.”
Somerset councillor Michael Bishop encouraged residents to look at opportunities to follow in Mrs White’s footsteps.
“Passionate Somerset residents are encouraged to join Council’s volunteering team as tourism ambassadors,” Cr Bishop said.
“Tourism is a growth industry for Somerset and volunteering off ers plenty of rewards.
“There are incentives off ered to volunteers and training is provided and above all else, it is a rewarding experience where friendships are made.”
With visitor information centres located in Esk, Kilcoy and Fernvale, and art galleries in Toogoolawah and Lowood, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer.
Volunteer application packages are available from any of the four facilities, Council offices or Council’s website: www.somerset.qld.gov.au.
