North Turramurra teen recognised for volunteer work with elderly

THEY say millenials are the “me me me” generation, but this 17-year-old on the north shore is bucking the trend big time.

Rosie Spurr, year 12 student of Brigidine College, is a volunteer at Turramurra House. Photo: Phillip Rogers

WHILE most year 12 students are busy preparing for the HSC exams starting next month, Rosie Spurr will need to slot in another regular commitment.

Rosie, of North Turramurra, volunteers one day per week after school at Turramurra House Nursing Home, where she not only helps the elderly residents, but also mentors other student volunteers.

The Brigidine College St Ives student, who has been helping out at the nursing home for more than two years, won the Lion’s Club Youth Service Award for the Service to the Aged category in June and is our nominee for the Pride Of Australia.

Turramurra House residents Barbara and Ursel with Rosie Spurr of North Turramurra, who won the Lion's award for her volunteer work with aged care centre residents. Photo: Phillip Rogers

“I felt so undeserving because there’s so many other people that do such amazing things in our community,” she said.

The 17-year-old, who lives with two family members needing high medical attention, said volunteering has helped her become more in touch with other people’s needs.

“It gives me a really good communal awareness (and) it’s a really humbling thing to do,” she said, adding that she was keen to work in the nursing or health field in the future.

Rosie Spurr is a year 12 student who enjoys helping out the elderly. Photo: Phillip Rogers

Turramurra House’s director of nursing Fiona Flood said young volunteers like Rosie delivered benefits to both the younger and older generation, by bringing the community into the elderly’s home.

“Rosie is an inspiration for other young people to volunteer,” Ms Flood said.

“She is always willing to help in any way possible (and) nothing is ever too much trouble for Rosie.”

For Rosie, trouble could not be further from her volunteering experiences.

“I just love it, I couldn’t imagine not going.”

You can nominate someone who has inspired you through their dedication, initiative, courage or acts of charity. They can be a neighbour, friend, team mate, colleague or family member. For more information and to nominate somebody visit: prideofaustralia.com.au