Thursday, November 28, 2024

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

A Lifetime of Service And Community Spirit

Margaret Taylor, recipient of the Moderator's Community Service Medal 2023, has dedicated her life to helping others. Nominated by her church minister, Malia Ma’u, Margaret’s contributions to the church and community have been recognised as exceptional.
Her work spans various areas of community service, including supporting school chaplains through fundraising and cooking, assisting youth groups at the Uniting Church and Community Church, and home visiting with the Burdekin Community Association. Margaret is also a familiar face at cake stalls and other community events. She recalls receiving the Australia Day Lifetime Service Award, which acknowledged over 30 years of dedicated service.
Margaret remains humble about her achievements, saying, “I just enjoy it. I get more out of it than I put in, helping the young ones that need a hand.”
Her passion for helping others extends internationally. Margaret participated in a Youth With A Mission (YWAM) medical boat trip to Papua New Guinea, where she assisted in providing eye and dental care to remote communities.
“You meet lovely people on the ship,” she shares. “You’re sitting beside an eye surgeon, and everyone is on the same level.”
Closer to home, Margaret is preparing for the Craft Spectacular and her annual tradition of baking Christmas cakes and puddings. Her journey into cooking began years ago when her husband, an ambulance officer, transitioned to making garden furniture due to ill health. To cover costs, Margaret started cooking, and her efforts have continued to grow.
Reflecting on her experiences, Margaret praises her church family, saying, “The people at the church are wonderful. If everyone just does a little bit, we’ll make the world a better place.”
Margaret Taylor is a shining example of how dedication, compassion, and community spirit can leave a lasting impact. Her story inspires others to find joy in giving and making a difference.

Margaret Taylor, recipient of the Moderator's Community Service Medal 2023. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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