If you’ve ever visited the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre on a Wednesday or Thursday, there’s a good chance you’ve eaten something Terry has cooked.
He first wandered into the Neighbourhood Centre more than 20 years ago to help organise its float for Carnivale, and he never really left. Over time he became a regular, then a full-time volunteer, and for the past decade he’s been the man behind the barbecue, the breakfast and the warm welcome many locals rely on.
On Wednesdays he prepares around 30 BLTs for the Community Pantry. Thursdays are for the men’s breakfast, which can draw up to 35 people.
“A lot of the people need a feed,” he says.
“But a lot of the people come for the camaraderie. They look forward to their mates turning up and having a chat and also getting a good feed.”
Terry’s volunteering extends well beyond the centre. He has spent 10 years helping with the cardiac rehabilitation program at Mossman Hospital, and he’s a familiar face at the Tin Shed, selling raffle tickets or caring for the pontoon boat, a vessel with deep family ties.
At 67, Terry could be spending more time fishing, his favourite pastime, but he says volunteering “sort of chose” him.
“I love doing it. People appreciate it, and that makes it easy,” he says.
“It’s a good feeling when someone says, ‘That’s the guy who cooks me a great breakfast’ or ‘He looked after me at rehab.’”
When he learned he’d been nominated for Volunteer of the Year, he was surprised. Winning it was an even bigger shock.
“I’m grateful,” he says.
“It’s great to be recognised in the community.”
