Sally Cooper – Talwood Branch Life Membership, 2023
Sally Cooper has been a longstanding and highly respected member of the Talwood Branch of ICPA, contributing many years of outstanding leadership, advocacy and dedicated service at both Branch and State levels. As one of the Branch's early members, Sally played a pivotal role in strengthening ICPA's presence in the Talwood district and ensuring the educational needs of rural and remote families were represented.
Sally's commitment to ICPA extended well beyond her own family's educational journey, and even after relocating to Goondiwindi, Sally continued to support the Talwood Branch through advice, encouragement and fundraising assistance. Throughout her involvement, Sally held significant leadership positions within the Talwood Branch, serving as Branch Secretary for two years and President for 10 years, before handing over the presidency in 2009. Her dedication and willingness to take on responsibility provided valuable stability and continuity, helping ensure the Branch remained an active voice for isolated families.
Sally's contribution extended to ICPA Queensland State Council, where she became the second Talwood Branch member to serve as a State Councillor, following founding member Jim Warner. After serving as State Fundraising Officer for several years, Sally was elected to State Council in 1999. Just one year later, she became State Vice President, a position she held until her retirement from Council in 2005.
During her time on State Council, Sally led the Special Needs portfolio, advocating for improved educational access, support and opportunities for students with additional learning needs. Her expertise and commitment saw her appointed as ICPA's representative on several important committees, including those addressing Hospital Schools, the Ministerial Taskforce on Inclusive Education and the Senior Certificate. Through these roles, Sally helped ensure the needs of rural and remote students were considered in broader educational policy discussions.
One of Sally's significant contributions at Branch level was her involvement in organising the 1994 ICPA Queensland State Conference in Goondiwindi. Working alongside Conference Convenor Mary Woods and committee members Liz Wood, Sylvia Ferguson and Julie Cornes, Sally helped coordinate a major event for the Talwood Branch. With only Sally and Mary having previously attended a State Conference, the committee faced a considerable learning curve yet approached the challenge with enthusiasm and determination.
Fundraising was an important part of the conference preparations, with the entire Branch contributing to the effort. One particularly memorable achievement was catering for the McIntyre Theatre Restaurant, where members supplied the lamb, prepared and served a three-course meal for 350 people. The event was both a considerable organisational achievement and a valuable fundraising success, demonstrating the teamwork and commitment of the Talwood Branch.
Beyond her formal roles, Sally has consistently demonstrated a willingness to share her experience and support fellow members. Her knowledge of ICPA, understanding of rural education issues and commitment to mentoring others have made her an invaluable source of advice and encouragement. Her continued involvement after stepping away from executive positions reflects a genuine dedication to the organisation and the families it represents.
In recognition of her extensive Branch leadership, 10 years as President, service as State Fundraising Officer and State Vice President, advocacy through the Special Needs portfolio and significant contribution to conference organisation and fundraising, Sally Cooper was nominated for Life Membership of the Talwood Branch. In conjunction with the Branch's 51st anniversary celebrations, her nomination acknowledged an exceptional contribution to ICPA and her enduring commitment to improving educational opportunities for rural and remote children and their families.
