Elizabeth Debney – Georgina Branch Life Member, 1996
Elizabeth Debney was a passionate and dedicated advocate for rural and remote education, contributing significantly to ICPA at Branch and State levels across both the Northern Territory and Queensland. Her involvement began in 1983 and from the outset, Liz recognised the importance of ICPA in supporting isolated families and ensuring their children had access to equitable educational opportunities.
Liz attended her first ICPA conference in Alice Springs, where she was inspired by the friendship, encouragement and determination of fellow members, particularly Bunny Powers, whose enthusiasm for improving educational opportunities for isolated children left a lasting impression. This experience strengthened Liz's commitment to ICPA and its advocacy.
In 1986, Liz and her husband Mal moved with their children from the Northern Territory to Queensland. Liz immediately joined the Boulia, Birdsville and Bedourie Branch of ICPA, while continuing to educate her children at home. She also represented parents on several school and departmental committees, further strengthening her involvement in rural education.
Despite living approximately 2,000 kilometres west of Brisbane, Liz's dedication and determination ensured that distance was never a barrier to her advocacy. With Mal's encouragement and support, she travelled extensively to attend meetings and conferences, representing the interests of geographically isolated families.
As the number of school-aged children in the Georgina district increased, Liz recognised the value of establishing a local ICPA Branch. She encouraged families to come together, leading to the formation of the Georgina Branch in March 1990. Liz had previously served as President of the Boulia, Birdsville and Bedourie Branch when it hosted the successful 1989 ICPA Queensland State Conference and remained involved with that Branch while supporting the newly established Georgina Branch.
Following the formation of the Georgina Branch, Liz continued to provide strong leadership, serving as Vice President for one year and President for three consecutive years. Her encouragement, enthusiasm and belief in ICPA inspired new members to become involved and advocate for better educational opportunities for their children.
Liz's contribution also extended to ICPA Queensland State Council, where her dedication and leadership were highly valued. She subsequently served on the State Executive as Treasurer for three years, undertaking the important responsibility of managing and improving the organisation's financial position. Although she resigned from this role in 1993, her commitment to ICPA and the education of children in the bush remained unwavering.
Throughout her involvement, Liz was remembered for her determination, encouragement and positive outlook. Her attitude was summed up by the words “YES WE CAN DO IT”, reflecting her belief that with commitment and perseverance, even the most difficult challenges could be overcome.
In recognition of her outstanding leadership, contribution to the establishment of the Georgina Branch, service on ICPA State Councils in the Northern Territory and Queensland, and tireless advocacy for isolated children, Elizabeth Debney was awarded Life Membership of the Georgina Branch on 10 December 1996. Presented at the Branch Annual General Meeting, her Life Membership acknowledged her exceptional dedication to ICPA and the significant role she played in strengthening educational opportunities for rural and remote families.
