Elite athletes will shine at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, but it’s Queensland’s unsung heroes stealing the limelight during the Queen’s Baton Relay.
Having departed Buckingham Palace on March 13 last year, the Queen’s Baton has visited every nation and territory in the Commonwealth, carried with care by batonbearers who have one thing in common – bucketloads of community spirit.
Among the 1800 Queenslanders proud to be chosen as a batonbearer was QSuper member, Robyn Lindsay.
When Robyn carried the Queen’s Baton along Robert St, Atherton, it was in the spirit of inclusivity and diversity that she has embraced throughout her career as a teacher.
Robyn has dedicated the last 20 years to special education and the last six to helping disadvantaged children in Africa.
"Everyone is of value, everyone is worthy and everyone deserves to participate,” Robyn says.
"I love working with families to empower them in their role as parents in the face of challenges. Being part of something bigger and working with others to bring about success is what makes me feel so proud to be part of this community.
In 2011, the 65-year-old visited Kenya with Hope Global to survey special needs requirements. That visit lead to her founding Regained Inc, an organisation that funds eye screening and medical support for Kenyan children with vision problems.
“I found I could use my skills in special education to help severely disadvantaged children assisting with eye operations, special schools and assisted education. After eye operations, these children were able to go into normal schooling.
“The spirit of the Commonwealth Games and Queen’s Baton Relay are about inclusivity and diversity which have both been motivating forces throughout my career. To be nominated to carry the Baton was overwhelming; that someone recognised the work we are trying to do is very, very humbling. It came out of the blue,” she says.
The event was made more special for Robyn as she was handed the Queen's Baton by a former student.
“It is quite symbolic as he has graduated and has accomplished so much, having faced so many challenges. My former student passing me the Baton demonstrates hope and celebration.”