She has clocked up 30 years as a volunteer with the Finley Second Hand Shop, 20 years as a volunteer staff member in the Finley High School canteen and more with the Survive Revive driver reviver program and other community initiatives.
And while she’s not in it for the praise and accolades, the Finley Rotary Club felt the long-time Finley resident was more than worthy of recognition.
Finley Rotary named Mrs Thomas as the recipient of their 2022 Rotary Citizen of Distinction.
Speaking to Mrs Thomas, the pure passion she has for volunteering comes through.
As was her shock at being honoured by Finley Rotary.
Mrs Thomas was completely unaware she was even in the running until a dinner with her son turned in to a delightful surprise.
“I didn’t know I was going to get the award when I went to the Country Club for dinner (on August 1),” she said.
“I said to others ‘Goodness me there’s a lot of people going in there for a meal’ not knowing what was going on regarding the Rotary Club.
“It made me feel very proud and honoured (to receive the award). You don’t go to do these things for a reward, you do it cause you want to.
“When they read out all the things I’ve done — from Meals on Wheels to Survive Revive and so on — I realised I’m 85 and I’ve loved doing what I have done.
“I am still volunteering at the Second Hand Shop today.
“I guess I just love doing whatever needs to be done.”
Mrs Thomas thanked Finley Rotary "very much for seeing fit to honour me, because my family is very proud“.
Rotarian Bruce Ferry said the 2022 Rotary Citizen of Distinction is determined on what a local has contributed to an organisation, or for the benefit of the town of Finley overall.
“We have a committee of senior members, and they receive nominations from the community,” he explained of the process.
“Two or three then get spoken about and then taken to the board, and they make a selection based on recommendations.”
Mrs Thomas said she will continue volunteering for as long as she can, and encouraged other members of the community to give of their time if they are able.
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