Photo: Supplied.
Long-serving Bayside Forum member Elaine West has recently been awarded Life Membership of Forum Communicators, recognising more than two decades of commitment, leadership, and service to the organisation.
Elaine first joined Forum over 20 years ago when she wanted to learn how to run effective meetings at work and speak confidently in front of colleagues. Fortunately, she was invited to attend a Forum meeting – and, as Elaine says, “the rest is history!”
It didn’t take long for her to realise just how much Forum had to offer – as a multi-faceted organisation, Forum Communicators provides countless opportunities for learning, growth and connection.
Elaine joined Bayside Forum, which now meets at the Wynnum Library, and has held many roles over the years in that Forum, including Treasurer, Secretary and President. She recalls that being encouraged to join the State Committee, and later stepping into the State President’s role, was a steep learning curve – but one she embraced with the support of her fellow members.
That same encouragement continued when Elaine became an Accredited Assessor within Forum Communicators. This is a role she has greatly enjoyed, as mentoring and assisting new members over the years has been one of her most rewarding experiences.
Elaine currently serves as Forum Communicators’ Historian and State Secretary. She embraces both of these roles with her trademark diligence, respect, and attention to detail.
In previous years, members of Bayside Forum nominated Elaine for two Redlands Australia Day Awards in recognition of her outstanding contribution to volunteering. That same spirit of service led to Elaine receiving Forum’s highest honour, Life Membership, which was presented to her at Forum’s recent conference. At the same event, Elaine also won the Ruth Don Grand Champion Speaking Award.
Since retiring from the workforce, Elaine and her husband have moved to Nandeebie Retirement Village, where she continues to give generously of her time. She currently serves as Chairman of the Residents’ Committee, liaising with management, organising events and supporting fellow residents. She also keeps communication flowing, producing Nandeebie’s monthly newsletter, and is currently preparing a second book of residents’ short stories.
Elaine says that Forum Communicators has given her the skills and confidence to embrace countless opportunities – both professionally and personally.
“I will be forever grateful for the encouragement and support given to me by so many Forum members, who have helped me on my journey of lifelong learning.”
Elaine, whose formative years were spent on a farm near a small town on the Darling Downs, was “addicted to learning right from the start.” After finishing Year 12 at Warwick High School, she chose to pursue nursing – a profession she loved and still feels deeply connected to. Marriage, three children and limited work opportunities on the Downs saw the family move to Brisbane in the early 1970s. There, Elaine transitioned from nursing to clerical work, which offered more suitable hours for a working mum. A few years later, the family settled in the Redlands, where they still live today.
