Penguin volunteer up for lifetime achievement award

Since 1972 she has been a volunteer with the Penguin Meals on Wheels branch helping make life a little bit easier for Coastal residents.

"It is very worthwhile," she said. "Sometimes we are the only ones they see during the day. You haven't got time to talk for too long, but I have been known to go back when I finish."

At 10-years-old Judy had life-saving surgery and was in recovery for a long time. It is the feeling from that time that continues to motivate the work she does today, 72 years on.

"I had no brothers or sisters, so being an only child I was left on my own a lot and I knew what it was like to be sick and be on your own," she said. "I have always thought that if you could brighten up someone else's day that is what it is all about."

In addition to Meals on Wheels, Judy has also been a volunteer at the Penguin Information Centre since it first opened in 1988 and has held various roles at the schools and sporting associations her children have been involved in.

"It is a benefit for the people that need help, but I think it is just as beneficial for yourself because you feel you are helping out," she said.

For her efforts Judy is a finalist for Volunteering Tasmania's lifetime achievement award to be held on May 17.

Fellow North-West resident Steven Martin is also a finalist for the lifetime achievement award and the education, science and technology award for his work raising funds for school breakfast clubs with the Toast for Kids Charity.

Smithton's Geoffrey Maluga is a finalist in the emergency services category for his work with the State Emergency Service, while John Bowden of Shearwater is a finalist in the art, heritage, tourism and events category for inspiring thousands through his role with the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.

Volunteering Tasmania's CEO Lisa Schimanski said the awards celebrated those who helped others in a multitude of ways.

"Volunteering has long been a driver of individual and community wellbeing, contributing more than $4 billion to our state every year and providing enormous social and cultural benefits."