Moderator's Medal - Lyn Watson, Townsville

In Townsville on 16 March 2026, the Moderator, Rev Bruce Moore, presented Lyn Watson with the Moderator’s Community Service Medal.  This award is for outstanding contribution to the community, and was presented in recognition of Lyn's outstanding service and dedication through eleven years of volunteering with the Safe Alert program.

Lyn is deeply respected and trusted throughout the Charters Towers region. Clients frequently request her by name, confident that she will listen, assist with alarm issues, and help them access additional services so they can continue to live safely and independently in their own homes.

A natural leader and role model, Lyn’s selfless and giving nature has shaped and strengthened the volunteer team. Many have learned from her example of diligence, patience, and compassion. She consistently goes above and beyond, travelling from Charters Towers to Townsville and surrounding regions to support clients and always placing the needs of others first.

Lyn’s service is both practical and deeply personal. As a field officer, she takes time to sit, listen, share a cup of tea, and connect through genuine conversation, often becoming a vital point of human contact for those who have little interaction with the outside world.

Through her work, Lyn has directly assisted more than 500 people, helping them remain connected, supported, and confident in navigating services such as My Aged Care. Her local knowledge, commitment, and readiness to act make her an invaluable presence - an ambassador for care, connection, and reliability in the Charters Towers community.

Beyond Safe Alert, Lyn has given generously through years of volunteer service with Lifeline crisis support and outreach, and by assisting community members to travel for essential medical appointments. Her contribution extends far beyond any single role or program.

Lyn’s dedication has brought purpose, encouragement, and joy not only to clients, but also to colleagues and volunteers who are uplifted by her warmth, humour, and companionship. Her service enables others to live with dignity, safety, and independence, and her impact will be felt for many years to come.

It is with deep gratitude and admiration that we recognise Lyn Watson as a most deserving recipient of the Moderator’s Community Service Medal.