Sing Australia gathered last month to celebrate a truly extraordinary milestone of one of their members – Maureen Baker's 90th birthday. An icon in her community, Maureen has not only witnessed the passing of nine incredible decades but has actively shaped the world around her, leaving an indelible mark on the environment and the hearts of those who know her.

Maureen, a beacon of wisdom and vitality, attributes her longevity to a simple yet profound mantra – "eating well is the most important thing." As she stands at the threshold of her tenth decade, she expresses overwhelming astonishment at the passage of time. Her journey is one of resilience, passion, and a deep-seated commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

One of the pivotal moments in Maureen's life occurred through the influence of her late husband, an accomplished fisherman. His keen observation of the river banks' corrosion prompted Maureen to take action. Recognising that cattle were a significant factor contributing to erosion, she embraced a newfound awareness of environmental issues and commends the evolving knowledge and dedication of people working towards solutions.

Maureen's dedication to conservation dates back to the 1980s when she first became actively involved in environmental causes. She served three terms on national parks advisory committees in the Far South Coast region of New South Wales. 

She spent numerous years as the Secretary of the Tuross Lakes Preservation Group, tirelessly advocating for Coastal Management and Landcare Issues. Maureen's influence reached beyond local councils to State and Federal Governments, where her letters and submissions echoed the importance of environmental stewardship.

Her commitment and efforts did not go unnoticed. On 26 January 2006, Maureen was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her outstanding service to the environment in the Eurobodalla region. Undeterred by the recognition, she continued to work for the next decade, appearing before Heritage Advisory Committees and making deputations to Councils.

Beyond her environmental pursuits, Maureen found solace and joy in the art of singing. A member of Sing Australia for seven years, she joined the Kiama group in 2017, after relocating to the coastal town. Despite facing various challenges, from health issues to the unpredictable weather and the recent impact of the global pandemic, Maureen remains unwavering in her commitment, driving herself each Wednesday night to share the joy of singing with a group that she holds dear.

"Singing is good for the soul," Maureen declares, a sentiment rooted in a lifetime surrounded by music. Raised by a mother who was a pianist for dancers, Maureen recalls a time when entertainment was found in the simple joys of dances and communal singing around the piano. As an alto, she may not have taken centre stage as a soloist, but she cherishes the harmony and camaraderie that singing with others brings.

As we gather to celebrate Maureen's 90 years of life, we are reminded of the immeasurable impact one person can have on their community and the environment. Her journey, marked by resilience and commitment, serves as an inspiration to all. Here's to Maureen – a true guardian of nature, a lover of song, and a beacon of light for generations to come. Happy 90th birthday Maureen and thankyou from us all!