Charleville Meals on Wheels volunteer wins award
LONG-time Charleville resident Erla Irving was given the State Volunteer of the Year Award for Meals on Wheels last month, for her invaluable service to the community.
Ms Irving was treasurer of Charleville Meals on Wheels for 16 years and lived in the Charleville and Tambo districts from 1945 until retiring to Palm Lake Village, in Toowoomba, in August this year.
Ms Irving said it was crazy to give someone an award for something they enjoyed.
"The most satisfying thing about Meals on Wheels is that it allowed clients to stay in their homes," Ms Irving said.
"I'm a great believer in Meals on Wheels."
Ms Irving said she had wonderful memories of her time in Charleville.
"I'm missing Charleville and the people but I'm comfortable," she said.
"At 93 I thought it was time I was near my family."
Meals on Wheels regional support officer Debbie Dennien said only one person per year got the award out of 15,000 volunteers.
"Whenever you speak with her she makes you feel wonderful," Ms Dennien said.
"Erla is just a joy to work with. She's inspirational."
Ms Dennien said there were 150 people at the awards ceremony.
"Erla gave a beautiful speech at the awards but didn't want all the fuss," she said.
