PROUD TO LEND HAND
WE have joined forces with QSuper to bring you inspiring stories of their members taking part in the Queen’s Baton Relay.
For Joyce Press, carrying the Queen’s Baton along Herbert St in Ingham is a chance to showcase her community on the world stage.
Sport and volunteering have always been a big part of the 71- year- old’s life, so being part of the Queen’s Baton Relay is a proud highlight in a career of giving.
“I don’t see volunteering as work,” she said. “When you’re doing something you’re passionate about, it’s not a chore. You don’t mind how much time you spend on it because it’s not work.”
As a teacher, Ms Press was involved in school sport throughout her career.
“I was secretary of the local primary school sports and organised trials and carnivals — I’m still secretary,” she said.
“I’ve also played netball all my life and been involved in the administration side. “I just love doing it, it’s all good fun.” Ms Press has played and umpired netball most of her life, competing until last year when she turned 70.
“I don’t have a big drive to win. I enjoy the sportsmanship and the fun we have as a team,” she said.
Ms Press has also made 270 donations to the blood bank and donates almost every two weeks.
“The blood bank always came to the teachers college when I was a student and I just kept donating after I left college,” she said.
“About 10 years ago, I started donating plasma and I do that almost every two weeks.”
As a retired teacher, Ms Press continues to share her knowledge and time, teaching computer literacy at her local library.
“I teach the students what they want to learn. It’s voluntary so we don’t follow a strict program. We just have fun and I let the students guide what I teach them,” she said.
“I am really proud to be carrying the Queen’s Baton but also I’m a bit self- conscious. I’m not keen on the limelight. The Queen’s Baton is about inclusivity and that is something we try to do in sport, to involve as many people as possible.
“I think it’s really good to showcase Ingham on the world stage and show our community pride.”