Jeanie Cotterell
Location: Sandgate
For three decades, Jeanie Cotterell has shared her musical talents and culinary skills to enrich the lives of older people in her community. As a volunteer with Blue Care in Sandgate for 22 years, Jeanie works in the Respite Centre where she uses diversional therapy techniques in sing-alongs, cooking and craft sessions.
It is Jeanie's unique musical talent in particular that has made such a positive contribution to the lives of staff and clients. Jeanie said her motivation over so many years of service is seeing the pleasure on clients' faces as they enjoy music from their past.
Jeanie has also volunteered her talents as the organist at her church for the past 37 years and as an assistant pianist for the Brisbane Festival Male Voice Choir.
In addition to her work with Blue Care, Jeanie has served with Meals on Wheels in Geebung for 32 years. Jeanie is both a cook and member of the management committee.
For organisations such as Blue Care and Meals on Wheels, which rely on the generosity of community members, Jeanie's dedication has helped both organisations to better meet the needs of the frail aged and people with a disability.
Last reviewed: 21 August 2009