For almost 30 years Bev Orr has opened her home to children in need of care whether that be for a day, a month, or in some cases, many years. Bev's great contribution to our community has now been publicly recognised by her being named the 2007 ACT Local Hero as part of the Australian of the Year Awards.
Since 1978, Bev and her husband David, have provided care for over 200 children whilst, at the same time caring for their own family. Bev did all this while working full time in Parliament House.
Bev was one of the co-founders of the ACT Foster Carers Association and continues as vice-president. She has also worked at the national level through her presidency of the Australian Foster Carers Association and is also Deputy Chair of Families Australia, the peak body she helped to found.
Over the many years of her involvement in foster care, Bev has also been selected to serve on many Commonwealth and Territory boards, forums and reference groups where her "hands on" experience, expertise and advice have been invaluable in the development of policies and programs for those working in the area of foster care.
In addition to her work as a foster carer, Bev has been a Guide Leader for the past 15 years and is only the second woman to have been awarded life membership of the YMCA Sailing Club. She has also worked as a volunteer telephone counsellor where she provided assistance for other foster carers and also support for people with mental health issues.
"I have known Bev for many years" said Mary Porter "and it was wonderful to be at the award ceremony at the National Gallery when the Chief Minister announced that Bev was our Local Hero."
"People like Bev Orr contribute so much to our community and it is important that we recognise their work" Mary said.
Gallery 2007 Image 1
