Ruth Thomas – Tambo Branch Life Member, 1982
Ruth Thomas was a foundation member of the Tambo Branch of ICPA, playing a pivotal role in establishing and sustaining the Branch during its formative years. Her involvement began in 1972, when she accompanied Nidera Cobb to Blackall to learn more about the newly formed Isolated Children's Parents' Association. This early interest developed into a longstanding commitment to improving educational opportunities for geographically isolated children and their families.
At the inaugural meeting of the Tambo Branch in July 1972, Ruth was elected Vice President, beginning a decade of dedicated leadership and service. Over the following ten years, she rarely missed a Branch meeting and willingly accepted numerous executive responsibilities, serving in positions ranging from President to Secretary and Treasurer.
Ruth's commitment was particularly important during 1977 and 1978, when declining membership placed the future of the Tambo Branch in jeopardy. At a time when the Branch came close to closing, Ruth provided the determination and continuity needed to keep members connected. She undertook the responsibilities of President, Secretary and Treasurer simultaneously, ensuring the Branch remained operational and continued advocating for isolated families.
Beyond her formal leadership roles, Ruth was a strong supporter of ICPA motions and initiatives aimed at securing assistance for children experiencing educational disadvantage. She recognised the importance of identifying areas where additional support was most needed and worked to ensure that the concerns of isolated families were brought forward.
Ruth also represented the Tambo Branch as a delegate at numerous ICPA Queensland State and Federal Conferences, ensuring that the experiences and educational needs of families throughout the district were heard within the wider organisation. Her involvement demonstrated a genuine belief in the importance of collective advocacy and the strength of ICPA's Branch network.
As a mother of five children living on a rural property, Ruth understood firsthand the challenges associated with raising and educating a family in an isolated area. Her personal experience, combined with her dedication to ICPA, made her a knowledgeable and respected advocate for rural families.
Ruth was particularly valued for her reliability, honesty and willingness to express her views. Fellow members recognised her as a strong link within the Branch, helping maintain unity and purpose during challenging times. Her unwavering support was instrumental in ensuring the Tambo Branch remained active and continued contributing to ICPA's wider advocacy.
In April 1982, when the ICPA Queensland State Executive met in Tambo, Ruth's exceptional contribution was formally recognised. Queensland State Secretary Teresa Cobb and Tanbo Branch President Joan Bradley presented Ruth with Life Membership of the Tambo Branch, acknowledging her decade of dedicated service and leadership.
In recognition of her foundation membership, ten years of outstanding commitment, extensive Branch executive service, conference representation and determination to sustain the Branch during difficult years, Ruth Thomas was awarded Life Membership of the Tambo Branch in April 1982. Her Life Membership was a fitting tribute to a woman whose dedication, perseverance and belief in ICPA helped ensure the continued strength of the Branch and its support for geographically isolated children and families.
