Recognised for her valuable contributions to our community, Phyllis received the award as part of the 2024 NSW Seniors Festival.

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Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh presented 83-year-old Phyllis with the award in recognition of her extensive, generous and remarkable contributions to our community.

“Phyllis has been a long-time advocate for seniors on the Coffs Coast, most particularly to inspire and encourage them to step out of their comfort zones and enjoy new experiences,” Mr Singh said.

“She has volunteered her time for many organisations including Radio CHYFM, the Salvation Army Family Store, the Coffs Harbour Table Tennis Club, the Coffs Seniors Computer Club and at Coffs Harbour Health Campus, where she drives the courtesy buggy.”

Phyllis found her purpose in helping others in her early 30s as a mum of three young children.

“My husband had a truck accident, aged 32, and was hospitalised for thirteen years until he passed away,” Phyllis told News Of The Area.

Following her husband’s passing, it was Phyllis’ mother who instilled in her the strength to carry on.

“Mum said to me: ‘Phyllis, you’ve got to get out of bed and help because there’s three young people here depending on you’.

“Her words were like an injection into me to get up, go out and help people, like they had helped me.”

Since then Phyllis has been out and about helping others in any way she can.

She recently campaigned to have Coffs Harbour’s hospital pool reopened to the public so seniors could return to their water aerobics classes.

Despite her best efforts, the pool was not reopened, so Phyllis found an alternative location.

“We’ve set up a seniors’ exercise group for water aerobics at Boambee Swim School.

“There’s been a phenomenal response, I could take more but I haven’t got the room,” she said.

For those heading towards retirement and looking for ways to contribute, Phyllis gives the following advice, originally offered by her mother.

“People won’t knock on your door; you must go out there.

“The Salvation Army and other op shops are desperate for people to help with an hour a day, or short shifts.”

Apart from the benefit to the community, Phyllis said there are personal benefits from volunteering too.

“It’s the social side of the role…sitting around over morning tea talking through your troubles and having a chat helps you see the brighter side of things.”

By Andrea FERRARI