White Pages Covers Program

Kelso's Courageous Australian Barbara Wren to appear on 2010/11 Bathurst directory

February 4, 2010

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Each year, locals are featured on the covers of the Yellow Pages® and White Pages® directories in recognition of the contributions they make to their communities. Under the theme Courageous Australians, this year directories producer, Sensis, is recognising courageous people who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to overcome adversity and help others in their time of need.

 After receiving nominations from community members for the annual honour, Kelso resident, Barbara Wren has been selected, to appear on the cover of this year’s Bathurst directory which is distributed to Bathurst, Cowra, Lithgow, Mudgee, Orange, Rylstone, Young and surrounding areas.

 After the tragic loss of her young daughter to a brain tumour in 1982, Barbara has been instrumental in establishing  many vital cancer support services. As a nurse at the Bathurst District Hospital, she has devoted her life to helping others fight cancer.

 By leading significant fundraising drives in the region Barbara was fundamental in founding the new children and oncology wards at the hospital. After seeing an overwhelming demand for services in the oncology department, it was clear that a second building was required. So Barbara again set about raising funds for the development of Daffodil Cottage, which opened in 1996.

 “After being in the situation of seeing a loved one go through the traumas of cancer I have experienced firsthand the need for support in such situations. Providing assistance in these cases is the least I feel I can do,” said Barbara.

 Barbara has treated thousands of cancer sufferers and provided support for families. Even in retirement, she continues to support a number of cancer councils.

 Jane Blackley, White Pages® Group Manager, says we felt the Courageous Australians theme was particularly relevant with many parts of Australia having experienced testing times over the past couple of years.

 “Australians are known for their compassion and willingness to put their hand up to help when it’s needed most. Whether helping to build better community relationships, showing strong leadership, inspiring others, or acting in a major crisis to protect the lives of others, we really wanted to demonstrate the diversity of what it means to be courageous.

 “From the nominations received, we were amazed at the many people from all walks of life who have shown tremendous courage, either by risking their own life to save another, overcoming major challenges to inspire others or helping to ensure the wellbeing and safety of the community. 

 “We felt Barbara was a great example of what it means to be a courageous Australian and we are delighted to feature her on the cover of the Bathurst directory,” said Ms Blackley.

 Distribution of Bathurst Yellow Pages® and White Pages® is planned to start on 6 February 2010 and it will take approximately six weeks for the directories to be delivered to all households.

 Sensis encourages residents and businesses to recycle their old directories. In most areas, Yellow Pages® and White Pages® can be recycled as part of normal kerbside recycling services. Visit www.recyclingnearyou.com.au  to find out about recycling services in your area.

 Did you know? The past three local people who appeared on the Bathurst Yellow Pages® and White Pages® cover were:

 2009/10: The 2009/10 Yellow Pages® and White Pages® featured Bathurst resident Barbara O’Leary on the cover under the theme ‘Creative Australians: Inspiring our Communities’. Barbara was chosen for bringing art into the lives of the elderly visitors at the Bathurst Seymour Centre by running popular art classes.

2008/09: For the 2008/09 theme ‘Celebrating Australian Flavour’, Bob and Margaret Craven from Canowindra were recognised for founding the Canowindra Springfest and the wine centre, Taste Canowindra.

 2007/08: In 2007/08, Orange residents Steven and Rhonda Doyle appeared on the Yellow Pages® and White Pages® cover for the ‘Champions of our Community’ theme, awarded for their contribution to Orange through their wine growing enterprise “Bloodwood” and helping to establish the Food of the Orange District project.