Geraldine McKerrow – Winton Branch Life Member, 1997
Geraldine McKerrow was a dedicated and highly valued member of the Winton Branch of ICPA, contributing more than 15 years of leadership, fundraising and commitment to supporting geographically isolated children and their families. Her extensive involvement in Branch activities, combined with her willingness to undertake significant responsibilities, made her an important contributor to the strength and success of the Winton Branch.
Geraldine's association with ICPA began in 1981, when she started attending Winton Branch meetings. At the time, she and her husband Graham's two children, Frank and Louisa, were lower-grade School of the Air students at Mount Isa, with Geraldine undertaking their education at home. Her firsthand experience as a Home Tutor gave her a strong understanding of the challenges faced by isolated families and the importance of ICPA's advocacy for rural education.
At the 1981 Annual General Meeting, Geraldine joined the Winton Branch Committee, beginning many years of dedicated service. She continued to serve as a Committee Member almost every year thereafter, providing valuable continuity, experience and support to successive Branch executives.
In 1982, Geraldine became actively involved in Branch fundraising, taking responsibility for organising, managing and contributing to the Matilda's Mirror stall at the Queensland Country Women's Association Fair in Winton. This marked the beginning of her extensive involvement in fundraising activities, which became a significant part of her contribution to the Branch.
Over the following years, Geraldine generously devoted countless hours to organising and supporting numerous fundraising ventures, including Matilda's Mirror stalls, the Outback Festival Afghan Bazaar, elephant stalls, race catering and overnight catering for endurance rides. Her willingness to undertake the demanding work associated with these events helped strengthen the Branch's financial position and supported its continued advocacy.
Geraldine's organisational abilities were recognised when she was appointed Assistant Secretary in March 1983, before becoming Branch Secretary in December 1983. She served in this position until November 1986, demonstrating efficiency and dedication in managing Branch business and providing valuable administrative support.
Following her time as Secretary, Geraldine remained actively involved in the Branch, continuing to contribute to fundraising and other activities. She also represented Winton as a delegate at ICPA Queensland State Conferences, ensuring the educational concerns of local families were heard within the wider organisation.
In December 1988, Geraldine was elected Branch Vice President, a position she held until November 1990. Her continued willingness to accept leadership responsibilities reflected her strong commitment to ICPA and the families it represented.
Geraldine's dedication and leadership were further recognised when she became Branch President in 1992. She provided strong leadership throughout 1992, 1993 and 1994, and again during 1995, when Winton hosted the ICPA Queensland State Conference. Her presidency during this significant event demonstrated her commitment and ability to guide the Branch through the responsibilities associated with hosting a major conference.
Throughout her involvement, Geraldine was recognised for her reliability, determination, organisational skills and willingness to contribute wherever needed. Her contribution extended well beyond formal executive positions, with countless hours devoted to fundraising, Branch meetings and supporting fellow members.
Geraldine's longstanding service demonstrated the importance of dedicated volunteers who provide both leadership and practical assistance to ensure local ICPA Branches remain active and effective. Her commitment helped strengthen the Winton Branch and supported its work advocating for improved educational opportunities for rural and remote children.
In recognition of her more than 15 years of dedicated membership, extensive Committee service, leadership as Assistant Secretary, Secretary, Vice President and President, conference representation and outstanding contribution to Branch fundraising, Geraldine McKerrow was awarded Life Membership of the Winton Branch on 21 May 1997.
