Source: South West News

VIETNAM veteran Alan Russell of Redbank Plains was one of a group of 34 local seniors who recently received official thanks for their voluntary community service.

Queensland Senator Russell Trood, from Forest Lake, presented Mr Russell with a 2008 Seniors Award for the work he does with the Ipswich branch of the Veterans' Support and Advocacy Service and the Goodna RSL, where he maintains the gardens and lawns with his own equipment and organises raffles and camping trips for war veterans.

Mr Russell spent 34 years in the Royal Australian Air Force as a member of the ground maintenance crew in 79 Squadron, and served in both Thailand and Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

``I feel happy to receive appreciation for my voluntary work efforts and push for Vietnam Veterans,'' Mr Russell said.

Members of Scouts Queensland were also well represented among the seniors whose community work was recognised with 17 award recipients having a direct association with the movement.

Other groups represented in the awards were the Lioness Club, RSL veterans' advocacy, Oxley State School P&C, Woogaroo Meals on Wheels, the Skylarkers 60 and Better Program, Inala Aboriginal Elders, Springfield Lakes Arts Group, and Booval Community Service.

Senator Trood said the award recipients were chosen because of their immense enthusiasm for voluntary service.

``I encourage these volunteers to continue playing this important community role,'' Senator Trood said.