Special People

In recognition of the extraordinary service provided by Ambassadors, the Foundation established the Les Day Award. This award is named after the late Les Day who was a Founding Director of the Buderim Foundation and the first Treasurer. His involvement was crucial to the early development and success of the Foundation. The Les Day Award is the Foundation’s highest accolade and given only occasionally to recognise especially high levels of service.

Ambassador Alex Sweet received the Les Day Award in 2014 for her outstanding work and dedication. Since the Foundation was launched in 2004, Alex has used her graphic design skills to establish the Foundation’s visual brand. Over the years she has produced advertisements, brochures, flyers, newsletters, annual reports, banners and signage. She has also been responsible for the development, design and on-going technical maintenance of the Foundation’s website.

In 2019, Sally Caddy, the Foundation’s long-serving Administration Officer, became the second recipient of the Les Day Award. Sally stepped into the Administration Officer’s role in January 2011 and her work commitment, and the number of hours she has dedicated to all sections of the organisation, have been exceptional. She has attended, and written the minutes for, over 100 Board meetings and her day-to-day administration work keeps the various committees within the Foundation integrated.

Ambassador Margaret Thursby received the Les Day Award in 2021 for her outstanding contribution to the Buderim Foundation over the last two decades in her roles as Marketing Committee Chair, Board member and Ambassador. Her vision, passion and commitment have inspired others to become involved in the Foundation, while her marketing expertise and professionalism have shaped and promoted the Foundation’s profile in the community. Marg’s generosity in sharing her knowledge and time, her thoughtfulness, her advocacy and her unfailing good humour have been invaluable as the Foundation has developed from an initial concept to a respected community foundation.

Thank you Alex, Sally and Marg!