Kate Twist – Mitchell Tomoo Branch Life Member, 2018
Kate Twist has made an outstanding contribution to ICPA at both Branch and State levels, demonstrating exceptional leadership, dedication and a longstanding commitment to improving educational opportunities for geographically isolated children. Over two decades of involvement, Kate has generously contributed her time, knowledge and organisational skills to strengthening ICPA and supporting rural and remote families.
Kate joined the Mitchell Tomoo Branch of ICPA in 1998, beginning an association that would see her take on numerous leadership and administrative responsibilities. Her willingness to contribute and support fellow members quickly established her as a highly valued member of the Branch.
Kate's involvement in Branch leadership began when she was elected Vice President in 2003, a position she held until 2008. During this time, she also undertook the role of Swim/Gym Camp Coordinator from 2005 to 2007, helping organise valuable sporting and social opportunities for geographically isolated children. These camps provided important opportunities for students to develop skills, build friendships and participate in activities that were not always readily accessible to families living in remote areas.
In 2009, Kate was elected President of the Mitchell Tomoo Branch, serving in this leadership role for four years until 2012. Her commitment to supporting the Branch continued when she returned to the position of Vice President from 2013 to 2015, providing valuable experience, guidance and continuity to successive Branch executives.
In 2016, Kate took on the role of Branch Secretary, further demonstrating her willingness to undertake the administrative responsibilities essential to the Branch's continued operation. At the time of her Life Membership nomination in 2018, she remained in this position, having contributed many years of dedicated service across several executive roles.
Kate's contribution extended beyond her local Branch when she was elected to ICPA Queensland State Council in 2010. She initially served as a Councillor and held responsibility for the Hostels portfolio from 2010 to 2011, advocating for issues affecting students who needed to live away from home to access their education.
In 2011, Kate was appointed ICPA Queensland State Secretary, a demanding position she held for five years until 2016. Throughout this period, she provided valuable administrative leadership, supporting the effective operation of State Council and contributing to the organisation's wider advocacy for geographically isolated families.
Following her service as State Secretary, Kate continued her involvement on State Council as Curriculum Portfolio Leader from 2016 to 2018. Through this role, she contributed to discussions and advocacy concerning curriculum delivery and educational opportunities for rural and remote students, ensuring the needs of geographically isolated families remained a priority.
Kate's extensive service at both Branch and State levels reflected her strong commitment to ICPA and her willingness to accept significant responsibilities. Her years of leadership, particularly as Branch President and State Secretary, demonstrated the important contribution of dedicated volunteers in maintaining the strength and effectiveness of the organisation.
Throughout her involvement, Kate has been recognised for her reliability, organisational skills and willingness to contribute wherever needed. Her commitment to Branch activities, student opportunities and State Council responsibilities has made her a valued member of ICPA and an important supporter of rural education.
In recognition of her 20 years of dedicated membership, extensive Branch executive service, contribution to Swim/Gym Camps, four years as Branch President, five years as ICPA Queensland State Secretary and leadership of the Hostels and Curriculum portfolios, Kate Twist was awarded Life Membership of the Mitchell Tomoo Branch in 2018.
Her Life Membership badge and certificate were to be presented at the ICPA Queensland State Council Mid-Year Meeting Dinner in Mitchell on 3 November 2018, acknowledging her outstanding contribution to ICPA and her longstanding dedication to improving educational opportunities for geographically isolated children and their families.
