State Members for Pine Rivers and Kallangur, Carolyn Male MP and Mary-Anne O’Neill MP have issued a timely reminder that the search is still on for seniors who serve their community as a volunteer.

Carolyn Male MP said nominations close Friday 5 June for the Premier’s Awards for Queensland Seniors.

“The annual awards recognise Queenslanders aged over 60 whose outstanding volunteer work has made a real difference to people’s lives,” Carolyn Male MP said.

“It’s an opportunity to recognise our wonderful volunteers who give up their time, skills and experience to help others. It comes down to old-fashioned goodness and so many of our senior volunteers have it in abundance.”

“I draw inspiration from their stories and their spirit of service. I’ve seen them at many community events over the years - an army of volunteers, working hard behind the scenes to make it happen,” Mary-Anne O’Neill MP said.

“That’s why I want to encourage people of all ages to nominate a Queenslander aged over 60, who has demonstrated excellence in volunteering.”

“Senior volunteers are an important part of our Q2 vision for tomorrow’s Queensland. They’re helping to make Queensland a fairer and more caring place.”

The awards seek to honour older people who make contributions in the following areas: aged care; community; disability services; education; emergency services; environment; health; Indigenous services; multicultural; social welfare; sport; youth services; arts, media and entertainment.

In 2009, for the first time, the awards will be presented at a ceremony in Brisbane to launch Seniors Week 2009 (15 - 23 August).

To obtain a nomination form or further information about the awards, please contact the Seniors Enquiry Line on 1300 135 500 or visit the Department of Communities website at www.communities.qld.gov.au.