by David Breit

James Simpson (Simpson and his donkey) had a strong sense of responsibility. He embodied the Anzac spirit of selflessness, determination, humanism, courage and improvisation.

During world War One (WW1) he and his donkey rescued over 300 wounded men who were under constant attack from the Turkish army.

Now the Neighbour Centre is hardly a battle ground, but Sally Green exemplifies the same spirit.

Like Simpson she comes from England, where she was pursuing a career in investment banking. It was highly prestigious and profitable, but gave her little personal satisfaction.

She took a holiday to come to Australia, discovered Port Douglas and did not want to leave. Sally decided to complete a Masters in Social Work and took a placement with the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre.

Pictured: Sally (middle) has left a lasting impression on her colleagues at the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre.

Here she was at the grassroots assisting those in the community, who had not had the opportunity in such things as ‘computer skills acquisition’. She joined the Broadband for Seniors team at the Centre and enjoyed the groups fun and lively approach to computing.

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Family fun day - Assisting organising and preparing for this very special day. Emergency relief - Understanding the value in assisting those in need to get through the tough times.

With these and other activities Sally has excelled.

Her friendliness and charm plus a very positive attitude has touched all those with whom she has had contact.

Unfortunately her term has come to an end, and she will move on to another placement. Sally will be sadly missed.

If you believe, as Sally does, that you receive more by giving and it is important to be a part of the community then there is a place for you at the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre.

As Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote; ‘It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself’.