Eileen Bailey
Location: Toowoomba
Eileen Bailey is a quintessential 'people-person'. Her innate respect for other people and compassion are at the foundation of her 35-year involvement with the Toowoomba Senior Citizens Club. Leading by example, Eileen encourages older people to enjoy life to the full. She coordinates and participates in numerous events, including indoor bowls, craft, cards, dancing and sing-a-longs.
As the club's secretary for 14 years, Eileen worked tirelessly every week day. And, just as she has done for more than three decades, Eileen helps serve morning tea each Monday. She also is a member of the Toowoomba Sports Club and sets up the rooms for bingo and card games.
For more than 50 years, Eileen participated in the Salvation Army's Red Shield Appeals and Christmas carols collections.
Dressed in period costume, Eileen has helped with food service for the Toowoomba Australia Day and Queensland Day celebrations. Over the last 15 years, Eileen estimates she has cut up more than 3,000 sausages!
Eileen, a breast cancer survivor, is an inspirational role model for her community. A mother of 11 children, she has 34 grandchildren and 27 grandchildren.
At 92 years old, Eileen proves that everyone can make a difference. She doesn't need to move mountains - Eileen believes it's the little things that add up to a lot. Serving an older person morning tea, taking the time to sit and talk, inspiring others to enjoy life - these are what brighten the day for everyone Eileen encounters.
Last reviewed: 21 August 2009