Location: Toowoomba
Dealing with droughts, floods and finances can be some of the challenges of working the land. And, for those who need help or someone to talk to, it can be difficult to know where to find it. For the past eight years, Bill Woodside has worked to bring together rural communities in Queensland's west through support networks.
Bill, who has been volunteering for nearly 60 years, was one of the original members of The Older Men's Network Inc. (TOMNET), established in 2001. Today, aged 80, Bill volunteers his time to visit high-risk communities and raise awareness of the issues affecting older men, especially in rural areas. He was also central to establishing support groups in a number of areas including Crows Nest, Pittsworth, Tara, Goondiwindi, Chinchilla, Roma, Dalby, Injune and Mitchell.
Bill's tireless efforts have seen weekly group meetings become an important source of 'mateship' and a means for guest speakers to promote positive ageing.
When Bill isn't on the road, he's bridging the generation gap. Each week, Bill volunteers on the youth mentoring program at Toowoomba South State School. He teaches effective behaviour programs, provides guidance and support and helps young people recognise their strengths.
Through his ability to identify with, listen and give others a sense of belonging, Bill's volunteer work is making life on the land a little less challenging for hundreds of people.
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