Avril Plath with Zachary - 2009
Avril has been associated with the Delta Pet Partners Townsville for more than six years. She joined the program with her Maremma x Border Collie, Zac as she was wanting to participate in a community venture where she could really make a difference to the lives of people. She also could see the benefits her ‘gentle giant’ could bring to those persons residing in aged care facilities. Neither Avril or Zac had received any exposure to this type of volunteer work but they were naturals. They commenced visiting at the Good Shepherd Home in Townville in 2004 and were an instant hit with all the residents and staff. She has many stories to tell about successful visits including illiciting a response from a resident who was bedfast/chair fast and unresponsive. The event was heartfelt by all who witnessed it. Avril visited her nominated service on a weekly basis until 2008 when Zac underwent hip surgery and she and subsequently retired him from the program. That notwithstanding Avril has continued to visit her ‘clients’ on a weekly basis even without Zac. She has shown complete dedication to the volunteer role. Zac has since been diagnosed with cancer and is being supported by Avril through his final days.
As a volunteer Avril would leave calling cards with a picture of Zac if the resident was not available when she called. She would make Christmas cards and birthday cards and became part of the residents’ and home’s family.
Since the retirement of Zac, Avril has become a ‘friend of Delta Townsville’. She has continued her support and promotion of the group and remains a keen volunteer role modelling behaviours and commitment.
At a branch level Avril has also proven to be invaluable. She acts as secretary and ensures that monthly meetings are held, minuted and information disseminated to everyone. She also coordinates monthly walks along the Strand where the Delta Dogs are easily identifiable in their red shirts and bandanas and many people stop to discuss our activities. I do not believe the walks would be as successful (including participation rates and promotionally) without Avril’s continued support and encouragement. In addition Avril is the ‘editor in chief’ for the local newsletter with is distributed widely amongst the Townsville business and social network. Avril also coordinates community promotional events such as paws in the park, volunteers’ week activities and promotional events at the local pet store. She works tirelessly to raise the profile of the group but does not seek any recognition for this.
Avril has also demonstrated her commitment to the aims of the Delta Pet Partners by promoting the activities of Delta Townsville to her employers, Xstrata. As a result we have been able to establish a successful business venture with the Xstrata Community Partnerships Program who have been regional sponsors for Delta Townsville for the preceding four years ($5,000 for three years and now $10,000 per year for three years) and we are now entering another successful two year period of sponsorship.
Avril is also heavily involved in other fund raising and promotional ventures including raffles, chocolate drives. She has also coordinated photography for Christmas cards and wine promotions. Avril ensures that all the volunteers are recognised during volunteers week and at Christmas time arranging the party and also seeking appropriate gifts.
I am sure that Delta Townsville would not be as successful without Avril’s continued and avid support. It is for these reasons that she is nominated for the Leigh Anne Snow Award.
