Senior Citizen of the Year Blue Mountains

by Grant Medaris

Congratulations to BMRSG member Jackie Mayers on being named as the Blue Mountains Senior Citizen for 2024. Jackie was recognised for her work in initiating and running the Youth Shoebox Project with Sue Campbell-Ross (Able2 Disability Services) since 2014. This project involved high schools and community organisations throughout the Blue Mountains by developing awareness and social responsibility around the treatment of refugees. The practical outcome saw over 3000 shoeboxes delivered to refugee children throughout Western Sydney, Canberra and our own Blue Mountains at Christmas.

Jackie has also been an active and dedicated member of the BMRSG for over 12 years. Jackie joined after attending a talk by Graeme Swincer and Jan Clarence at the East Blaxland Uniting Church in August 2012. In the intervening years Jackie has been a visitor to Villawood Immigration Detention Centre, a community visitor providing social and practical support to individuals and families and organised counselling support programs for our numerous community and institutional visitors.

Dedication, consistency and total involvement have characterised Jackie’s efforts. She has always made herself available to help and support refugees and asylum seekers through their most difficult times. It is not just refugees who have benefited from Jackie’s involvement, she has been a pillar of support to many volunteers within the group. Breadth and depth are two words that encapsulate Jackie’s tireless efforts – no problem was ever too big or too small. Being chosen as the Blue Mountains Senior Citizen of the Year is a fitting way to recognise Jackie’s impact on our community.