Barbara Morton
- Location:
- Longreach
Flora Morton, affectionately known to the Longreach locals as Barb, is well-known in for her voluntary work for many of the rural town’s organisations and causes.
In fact, there are few local organisations that have not benefitted from Barb’s ongoing help, and many that may have folded if not for her work.
As a long-time volunteer for Longreach Meals on Wheels, Barb has lost count of the number of meals she has delivered to community members since she helped set up the organisation in 1981.
A love of horses has seen her act as ring steward for the Longreach Show Society since 1967, providing almost two generations of leadership in this area. Her dedicated service was rewarded with life membership.
Barb has also provided 20 years of service to St Andrews Anglicare Church and the Longreach Arts and Crafts Association, and for more than 40 years Barb has supported the local Good Friday Legacy Appeal.
At 80 years of age, Barb remains active in the Longreach community, stepping in to help out when needed. Without her commitment many of the community’s organisations, like the Longreach Ambulance committee, would not exist.
When the committee was about to fold in 2007 due to limited interest and participation, Barb took over as chair and enthusiastically recruited new committee members. As a result, the Longreach Ambulance Committee has enjoyed a resurgence in participation and support.
Members of the Longreach Seniors Citizens Association, who nominated Barb for the award, agree that ‘the Longreach community is richer due the ongoing and tireless volunteer service lovingly provided by Barb’.