Who’s Who in 2022, Community: Ann Brooks

A University of the Third Age (U3A) champion who helped one branch almost triple its membership was recognised for her hard work and dedication to the community at the 2022 Moreton Bay Region Australia Day awards.

Ann Brooks, who served as President of Bribie Island U3A for 12 years, was announced the winner in the new Mayor’s Community Spirit Award category.

The Spirit Award recognises extraordinary contributions to the Moreton Bay community but was open to those who lived within or outside the region, and those who aren’t Australian citizens - a first for the program.

Speaking about the award recipients in January, Mayor Peter Flannery said all the 2022 award winners were deserving of their honours and reflected the diversity and sense of pride that made the region such a special place.

“Australia Day is a time to come together and celebrate how lucky we are to live in our region, and the country we call home,” Mayor Flannery said at the time.

“Part of this is sharing our own stories, and each of this year’s award recipients have great stories to tell - all of them showing commitment to helping others, reaching out to those in need, and giving back to their community.

“It’s people like our award winners that epitomise the Aussie spirit of reaching out to others no matter the circumstances, and not giving up when times get tough.”

About Ann Brooks

Ann Brooks served as President of the Bribie Island University of the Third Age (U3A) from 2004 to 2016.

During her time as President, Ann was instrumental in helping the organisation grow, resulting in the number of members almost tripling during her 12 years in the top role.

Today, more than 2000 people from across Bribie Island and the surrounding regions are members of U3A, which is a social and educational club for senior citizens.

Members are able to join as many classes as they like each month, ranging from art to languages, card games, yoga, dancing, music, board games, lawn bowls, chess, book clubs, tennis, writing and more.

Ann has also helped open two successful U3A branches at Beachmere and Caboolture, and also manages the Masters and Apprentices annual art and drama exhibition held at the Bribie Island Community Art Centre (BICAS). This much-loved exhibition gives more than 100 local artists the opportunity to showcase their artworks and creative side to the wider community.