.png)
Celebrating Ann Ryan's Inspiring Journey as Senior Citizen of the Year
Ann Ryan’s story is one of dedication, resilience, and heartfelt service. Awarded the 2025 Senior Citizen of the Year in Australind, Ann embodies the spirit of community through her kindness, generosity, and tireless volunteer work. Her journey offers a powerful example of how one person’s commitment can create lasting positive change.
A Pillar of Support at Strong Angels Inc.
For seven years, Ann has been a cornerstone of Strong Angels Inc., an organisation that provides scholarships to disadvantaged students in Greater Bunbury high schools and Bali. Her role as Shift Coordinator at the charity op shop in Dalyellup involves a variety of important tasks:
Organizing raffles to raise funds
Managing banking and financial records
Advertising larger donated goods on Facebook to reach more buyers
Serving on the Executive Committee to help guide the organisation’s direction
Ann’s willingness to cover shifts when others are unavailable shows her dedication. She consistently goes beyond what is expected, ensuring the shop runs smoothly and supports the community effectively.
Strength Through Adversity
Ann’s journey has not been without challenges. As a cancer survivor, she has transformed her personal strength into a source of hope and motivation for others. She channels her resilience into fundraising efforts that benefit many causes, especially Relay for Life, a cancer support event.
Her fundraising activities include:
Sausage sizzles at Australind Bunnings
Collecting containers for the Containers for Change program
Hosting garage sales at her home and community events in Binningup
Her team, The Sassy Seagulls, has raised an impressive $23,904, making them the top fundraisers in the Bunbury Relay for Life. Ann’s leadership and encouragement inspire others to join and contribute to these vital community efforts.
Bringing Joy Through Dance
Beyond fundraising, Ann shares her passion for ballroom dancing by volunteering with Can Dance Southwest. This program offers students with special needs a chance to enjoy social and performance dancing in a supportive environment.
Ann’s role involves:
Creating a welcoming space for students of all ages and abilities
Showing kindness, patience, and respect to every participant
Helping students build confidence and social skills through dance
Her involvement highlights how community service can take many forms, from fundraising to fostering inclusion and joy.
The Heart of a Community Leader
Ann Ryan’s story is a reminder that community spirit thrives through action and care. Her selflessness and trustworthiness have made a real difference in Australind and beyond. Whether coordinating shifts, leading fundraising teams, or dancing with special needs students, Ann’s positive spirit shines through.
Her example encourages everyone to find ways to contribute, no matter their circumstances. By stepping up and supporting others, each person can help build a stronger, kinder community.
Comments