I would like to introduce you to Erika Wilkinson, our Quiet Achiever Award recipient for 2021.
Erika started volunteering for the Australian Red Cross in 2006 after cyclone Larry hit Far North Queensland and has continued working with the Red Cross in disaster recovery – that is, whenever a natural event such as cyclones, floods or bush fires occur anywhere in Queensland, Erika is one of the first volunteers on the ground aiding those affected, either by offering direct support or with the setting up of evacuation centers.
Erika’s role does not end there, she also represents the Red Cross when working alongside the Department of Communities Disaster Recovery teams. This involves Erika and the Department door knocking disaster affected areas, checking on the residents making sure they are safe, informing them where they can seek help and educating them on what benefits they may be entitled to. Erika can be away for several days at a time, and when arriving home, only to receive a phone asking can she go back within the next day or so. This can go on for some time depending on how large the disaster has been.
On a personal note, Erika is also very good knitter of dolls and animals of different sizes and colours and these are admired by everyone. She donates many of these for fund raising events and gives to other organisations in the community. For the last 28years Erika has been a member of the Cairns Scope Club and has held several positions over that period. She is always quick to volunteer for any event that the club is doing.
Erika is a worthy recipient of this award. Congratulations Erika.