John & Wendy Tully – Quilpie Branch Life Members, 2002
John and Wendy Tully were longstanding and dedicated members of the Quilpie Branch of ICPA, both joining in 1974. Over nearly three decades, they made an outstanding contribution to the Branch through leadership, advocacy, fundraising and an unwavering commitment to improving educational opportunities for geographically isolated children. Their combined efforts helped strengthen ICPA at both Branch and national levels.
John quickly became involved in Branch leadership, serving as Quilpie Branch President in 1975 and again from 1984 to 1988. His dedication to rural education extended well beyond the local Branch, and from 1989 to 1997, John served on ICPA Federal Council, representing the interests of isolated families across Australia.
Throughout his involvement, John attended numerous State and Federal Conferences across Australia, often personally covering much of the travel expense. He was a tireless advocate for ICPA, dedicating considerable time and effort to lobbying governments for fairer and more equitable educational opportunities for isolated children. His commitment reflected a strong belief that children living in rural and remote areas should not be disadvantaged simply because of where they lived.
Wendy was equally dedicated to the Quilpie Branch, providing many years of leadership and practical support. She served as Branch Vice President for numerous years and President in 1992, while also representing the Branch at several State and Federal Conferences. In 2002, she continued her active involvement as Branch Publicity Officer, demonstrating a commitment that extended well beyond the schooling years of her own family.
One of Wendy's most significant contributions was her tireless involvement in Branch fundraising, particularly catering at the Quilpie race meetings. For approximately 25 years, Wendy helped organise and deliver catering at almost every race meeting, alongside numerous clearing sales and other fundraising activities. Her willingness to undertake the demanding work behind the scenes was highly valued by fellow members.
Wendy was especially remembered for her determination to see every job through to completion. Whether organising catering, assisting with fundraising or cleaning up after a long day, she was often the last person to leave, ensuring everything was in order. Her practical support and willingness to contribute wherever needed played an important role in maintaining the Branch's fundraising activities.
Together, John and Wendy demonstrated the value of dedicated volunteers who contribute both through formal leadership and the countless hours of work required to keep a Branch active. While John focused much of his energy on advocacy and representing ICPA at Federal level, Wendy's leadership, fundraising and ongoing Branch involvement ensured the Quilpie Branch remained strong and well supported.
As the Quilpie Branch celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2002, members recognised the remarkable contribution John and Wendy had made since joining in 1974. Their longstanding service reflected a genuine commitment to ICPA and the rural and remote families it represents.
In recognition of their nearly 30 years of dedicated membership, extensive Branch leadership, John's eight years on Federal Council, Wendy's tireless fundraising and their combined commitment to educational equity, John and Wendy Tully were jointly awarded Life Membership of the Quilpie Branch in 2002. Their Life Memberships acknowledged an exceptional contribution to ICPA and the lasting impact of their service on the Quilpie Branch and isolated families throughout Australia.
