Over 200 people gathered on Saturday 19 November in the Presidential Ballroom of the Sebel & Citigate,King George Square,Brisbane to applaud and recognise the efforts of the Spirit of Queensland Awards finalists for 2011.
Master of Ceremonies was Steven Bradbury (Australia’s speed skating Olympic gold medal winner) who entertained guests with his story of being the “last man standing” but the focus of the evening was on the wonderful efforts of the finalists who had come from all over the state to be interviewed by the judging panel on the Friday. Each year, the judges have the very difficult job of choosing the award winners.
Tension built as the evening progressed but finally the envelopes were opened and the winners announced. The 2011 Spirit of Queensland Winner was Leanne Pullen from Mackay. This was Leanne’s seventh year taking part in the Spirit of Queensland program and the judges were in agreement that her tireless energy and inspirational fundraising effort made her the worthy winner. Also recognised on the night for their achievements were Stephanie Avis fromSt.George (Corporate Charity Award), Trish Connors from Weipa (Charity Award), Doug Field from Brisbane (Outstanding Achievement Award) and Shelly Norton from Boulia (Ergon Energy Judges’ Encouragement Award).
The night was attended by RFDS supporters from the corporate sector as well as staff and friends and family of the finalists and was the perfect setting for acknowledging the passionate support given to the RFDS by all the finalists as well as the award winners.
The RFDS would like to thank Hawker Pacific as Gala Ball sponsor and program sponsors of Qantas Foundation, Carlton United Brewers, Breville, Mirvac, Queensland Country Life, ABC Radio, BMA Event Group and Top Dog Advertising for their support of the Spirit of Queensland Awards.
