Community spirit recognised with new award

A passion and commitment for the community is in abundance on Bribie Island with another resident recognised for their achievements and contributions in the Council’s 2022 Australia Day Awards. Ann Brooks received a ‘Community Spirit Award’ for her work with the Island’s University of the Third Age (U3A).

The ‘Community Spirit Award’ is given to those who have made extraordinary contributions to the Moreton Bay community. It was open to entrants who live within or outside the region and also those who aren’t Australian citizens, which is a first for the program.

Ann’s passion for education has brought joy, and sparked a love for learning, among thousands of others across the region. Her dedication and enthusiasm during her 12 years of service as president of U3A was an inspiration to many. Culminating in membership growing from 460 senior citizens, when she started in 2004 and almost tripling by the time she handed over the role in 2016. Ann has also served the U3A in the role of vice president and is now the group’s patron.

The success of U3A is evident with more than 2000 members from across Bribie and surrounding areas, now part of the social and educational club for seniors. Members have the opportunity to attend a wide range of classes, covering multiple subjects run by volunteer tutors, which help with mental and physical wellbeing. Ann also helped open the highly successful U3A branches at Beachmere and Caboolture.

Not only has Ann been instrumental within U3A but she also manages the ‘Masters and Apprentices’ annual art and drama exhibition held at the Bribie Island Community Art Centre. Giving more than 100 local artists the opportunity to showcase their work.

Mayor Peter Flannery congratulated this year’s award recipients, noting they were all well-deserving of their newly bestowed honour and reflected the diversity and sense of pride that makes the region such a special place.

“I’d like to congratulate all four winners on their remarkable achievements and thank them for their dedicated service, along with everyone who was nominated this year,” Mr Flannery said. “While our Australia Day Awards ceremony looked a little different this year, it has still given us the chance to celebrate, and reflect on their selfless and significant actions in what are challenging times.”