Christine McDonald – Cloncurry Branch Life Member, 2023
Christine McDonald has a long association with ICPA, with her involvement dating back to the 1970s. She served as Secretary in 1975, demonstrating an early commitment to supporting isolated families and advocating for improved educational opportunities for children living in rural and remote areas.
Christine’s involvement with ICPA continued to evolve over the years. In the 1980s, she became involved with the Branch of the Air (BOTA), extending her commitment to the particular needs of families educating their children through Distance Education.
Throughout her years with ICPA, Christine contributed in many practical ways, including assisting with the Cloncurry Show tent, catering for social functions and involvement in a satellite trial for ICPA. She also supported ICPA State Conference activities and attended conferences in Charters Towers, Chinchilla, Condamine, Blackall and Cloncurry.
For Christine, ICPA has always been particularly important as a strong lobby group for inland families who do not have access to mainstream schooling. Equally important were the friendships and connections created through school and ICPA activities. She also valued initiatives such as Cubs of the Air, which provided opportunities for isolated children and families to connect with others experiencing similar circumstances.
After almost five decades of association with ICPA, Christine’s contribution reflects both longstanding advocacy and the practical, behind-the-scenes support that has sustained the Cloncurry Branch over many years.
In recognition of her dedicated service and commitment to isolated children and families, Christine McDonald was nominated for Life Membership of the Cloncurry Branch on 27 March 2023. Her Life Membership recognises a remarkable association with ICPA stretching back to 1975 and her enduring support for rural and remote education.
