Diana McClymont – Longreach Branch Life Member, 1998
Di McClymont joined the Longreach Branch of ICPA in 1979 alongside her husband, Mac. From that time, Di became an active and well-informed member of the Branch, contributing many years of leadership, organisation and practical support to ICPA and rural and remote families.
Di was elected Branch Secretary in 1984 and became heavily involved in organising the 1985 ICPA Qld State Conference held in Longreach. She later served as Branch President from 1989 to 1992, during which time she also took on the significant role of Convenor of the 1991 State Conference.
Her contribution continued as Branch Fundraising Officer from 1994 to 1996, while she also represented Longreach as a delegate or observer at numerous State and Federal Conferences. Through these roles, Di helped ensure the concerns and priorities of Longreach families were represented within the wider ICPA organisation.
Remarkably, Di balanced her extensive ICPA commitments while teaching four children at home. She also served as Treasurer of the Charleville School of the Air P&C and travelled many kilometres as part of the foundation committee for the Longreach School of Distance Education. When the school was established, Di became the first President of its P&C, continuing her strong advocacy for Distance Education families.
Beyond her formal positions, Di was remembered as a mother, adviser and source of support to many struggling Home Tutors. The original Life Membership tribute affectionately described her as an “answering machine” for Mac and an “I don’t know — but apply!”, reflecting both her extensive knowledge and her willingness to help others navigate the challenges of rural education.
Di’s contribution was also closely connected with Mac’s extensive ICPA service, with the Branch acknowledging the support and assistance she provided throughout his involvement on State Council. Their commitment to ICPA was very much a partnership, with both giving generously of their time and experience over many years.
In recognition of her nearly 20 years of dedicated service, Branch leadership, conference organisation, Distance Education advocacy and invaluable support of Home Tutors and isolated families, Diana McClymont was awarded Life Membership of the Longreach Branch on 14 October 1998. The presentation took place at the Longreach Conference Dinner, where Di and Mac were jointly honoured for their longstanding contribution to ICPA.
