Governor celebrates milestone with Townsville organisation

In 2004, the tireless work of the Townsville community achieved a significant landmark for the Spinal Injuries Association.

Five years to the day since the official opening of the organisation’s Townsville office, those involved with its inception today (Monday, 3 August) celebrated the anniversary with a special guest – Queensland Governor Her Excellency Ms Penelope Wensley, AO.

As patron of the Association, Her Excellency recognised and thanked the major donors and Supporters Committee members who campaigned for and constructed the office on Ross River Road.

Spinal Injuries Association CEO Mark Henley said it was important to acknowledge all that had been accomplished in establishing the Townsville office, as well as the significant achievements of the organisation in the past five years.

“While our Association operates throughout the state, the opening of this building five years ago allowed us to meet the growing needs of our North Queensland members,” Mr Henley said.

“The building, which is one of the most accessible buildings in Australia, would never have been built without the exceptional support of so many businesses and groups in North Queensland.

“In particular, the Supporters Committee, led by Judge Bob Pack and Fraser Montgomery, were instrumental in developing the Townsville office, and they continue to fundraise for our Association.”

Spinal Injuries Association Board Member and Spinal Education Awareness Team (SEAT) presenter Scott Stidston said the opening of the organisation’s North Queensland office had made an enormous difference to local people living with a spinal cord injury.

“To have personal care support, healthcare advice and assistance, peer support, community networking groups and the Spinal Cord Injury Response initiative available in Townsville has vastly benefited the health and wellbeing of North Queensland members,” Scott said.

“As I sustained quadriplegia more than 20 years ago, I understand implicitly the requirements of a person with a spinal cord injury, and I’m proud to say that our Association goes above and beyond in delivering these requirements.

“And, working collaboratively with our staff in the Association’s Brisbane office, we’re delivering a standard of service that is of the highest quality, to ensure all members are being empowered and assisted to live independently in their communities.”

Established in 1960, the Spinal Injuries Association is Queensland’s peak body for people with a spinal cord injury, and for people with the late effects of polio. The Association believes in rebuilding lives, promoting independence and preventing injuries, through services that assist our clients and members in their homes, at the workplace or in the community.

For more information please visit www.spinal.com.au.

Issued 3 August.