Lovely surprise for arthritis group

CRANBOURNE Arthritis Support Group has been helping to improve the quality of life for people with musculoskeletal diseases for 25 years.
The group was last week recognised for its outstanding community service as a winner of the Federal Government’s National Day for Older Australians Awards for the Flinders electorate.
President Rae Johnson said the award came as a “lovely surprise” as she had no idea the group had been nominated.
“One of our members read about the awards in the paper and nominated us without me knowing.
“I didn’t find out until we were told we had won,” she said.
Ms Johnson said it was nice that the many hours of time and effort the group’s volunteers devoted each week had been acknowledged.
“It is nice to get recognition every now and then. We don’t go in for many of these things because we don’t do it for the recognition,” she said.
Ms Johnson said the Arthritis Support Group had become a way of life for her and she had no intention of giving up her role as president.
“I love doing what I do and I just couldn’t ever give it up. I hope I will be a part of it for as long as I can,” she said.
Flinders MP Greg Hunt congratulated the group and other winners for their outstanding contribution to the local community.
“Older people are and have always been a treasured asset to our nation,” Mr Hunt said.
“They make a significant contribution to society with a lifetime of skills, knowledge and experience to share.
“They often make remarkable contributions to their families and friends.
“I am delighted to be able to present Certificates of Recognition to older people whose contributions have enriched our community.”