It was an honour to attend Breakfast at the Southside Community Sports Club on Saturday.More than 200 guests attended the annual thankyou celebration for those who support Access Outreach programs. While they always need more money and support for their programs there was no pressure to give, just appreciation for what volunteers and supporters have achieved.
Police and Prisons Minister Judy Spence has been a long time supporter and friend to Street Access. In her words of appreciation Judy reinforced that governments and bureaucrats can't solve the problems, it's volunteers and concerned people in the community that make a difference.
I am impressed when someone who administers departments as challenging as Judy is responsible for still makes the effort to keep in touch with those helping pick up the pieces and does it humbly. As Police and Prisons Minister Judy Spence has had some challenges this year and I wish her all the best. I honour her work in the Queensland Government.
Phil Reeves (Mansfield), Cr Krista Adams (Wishart) and Deputy Mayor Graham Quirk shared their genuine appreciation and support for the work headed up by Russell and Betty Witham.
I don't think Russell will ever slow down thinking how he can be more effective making an impact on the community. The passion he and Betty have to inspire those who are doing it tough is encouraging. Their message is summed up on towels being given away to homeless and marginalised people, with an embroidered reminder, "Never Throw in the Towel."
Phil Reeves has helped Access gain funding for another vehicle. I could tell how thrilled he was to pass on the good news to Russell. I reckon he knows it will be money well spent to fill a need government can't do as efficiently.
I have met some wonderful friends at Access Street Lunch and Greenmeadows Lodge.
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