Townsville Senior of the Year recipients named

Two of Townsville’s most outstanding seniors have been recognised for their commitment to community with Townsville Senior of the Year awards today.

Betty Sayce and Anthony Hallo were awarded at today’s Seniors Luncheon event after being nominated for their dedication to volunteering in Townsville.

Mayor Jenny Hill said it was a pleasure to be able to honour the two recipients.

“Betty and Tony are two extraordinary people in our community, with both of them serving those in need at Townsville University Hospital,” Cr Hill said.

“Betty has volunteered with Brighter Lives at the hospital for 11 years, sharing stories with patients and their loved ones as she makes them cups of tea and coffee or hands out sausage sizzles. Her love for Christmas is felt throughout the oncology ward as she decorates it each year to help lift the mood of patients during the festive season.

“Betty’s presence at the hospital has been a comfort for many, and it’s admirable to see her longstanding commitment to volunteering in a challenging environment. I’d like to extend my warmest congratulations and thanks to Betty for all she does for our community.

“Tony has spent almost 55 years as a pastor across Australia, and has spent many of those years in Townsville. He spends each Friday volunteering his piano playing skills at Townsville University Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit to provide comfort to patients in the final stages of their life’s journey.

“Tony has mobilised a mercy ministry to collect food, water and medical supplies to support civilians in Ukraine, and remarkably went to volunteer on the ground during the start of the Ukraine War.

“Tony also volunteers with Stable on the Strand and by visiting people in aged care and in prison to provide conversation and friendship. Again, my warmest congratulations and thanks go to Tony for this well deserved award.”

To learn more about the Senior of the Year awards, visit Senior Awards.