Still making a difference at 87: Wendy Gover's story as a Community Visitor
For more than a decade, Wendy Gover has been a strong and steady voice for some of Queensland’s most vulnerable residents.
Wendy, who turns 87 this month, is a Community Visitor with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). Her job is to promote and protect the rights of adults with impaired capacity who live in supported accommodation.
She’s been in the role since 2013, and is still out in the community every week—visiting clients, speaking with service providers, and checking that people are safe, supported, and treated with dignity.
'People with disability are often vulnerable and unable to speak for themselves. I can be their voice.'
We asked Wendy to share a bit about her experience in the role, and why she continues to do this important work.
What inspired you to become a Community Visitor, and how long have you been in the role?
I worked in NSW as a mediator with a Community Justice Centre in Newcastle, but later relocated to Cairns to be closer to my son. I reached out to the Cairns Dispute Resolution Centre with my resume. While they weren’t recruiting at the time, a few weeks later they contacted me about a new Community Visitor role being funded through the Department of Justice.
That was in 2013, and I’ve been doing the job ever since. The Community Visitor Program later moved from the Department of Justice to the Office of the Public Guardian.
What does a typical day or visit look like for you?
I usually check and respond to emails in the morning, and spend that time writing reports or preparing for upcoming visits. Most of the people I visit are out during the day on community access - going to appointments or taking part in activities - so I usually begin my visits around 3pm, once they’ve returned home.
‘I travel to the person’s home and spend time with them — checking how they’re going, making sure they have what they need, and observing whether the environment is safe, clean and comfortable. If they’re happy for me to do so, I might speak with their support workers and review documentation about their care. If I identify an issue, I contact the service provider and try to work with them to get it resolved.
When I finish up for the day, I head home and jump in the pool!
Why do you think this service is important?
During my time as a Community Visitor, I’ve been able to resolve some really serious issues — including cases where a person with disability was assaulted. In one case, the support worker was dismissed and the client was protected.
More broadly, I’ve been able to advocate for people’s basic rights and wellbeing. People with disability can be incredibly vulnerable and often aren’t in a position to speak up or make complaints themselves. I can be their voice and make sure they’re being treated properly.
What keeps you coming back after all these years?
I feel I have an opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of people who are vulnerable.
Of course, Community Visitors must not become emotionally involved — but the reality is, we’re not made of cardboard. We get to know our clients and they get to know us. There’s real trust there. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of someone’s life in a way that makes things better for them.
What would you say to other older Queenslanders thinking about doing some kind of community service?
Do it! There are moments that can be challenging but overall, it’s a job where you can make a real difference. And the camaraderie among Community Visitors is wonderful. I’ve made some fantastic friends.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’ve always felt supported in this role. My managers listen and value our feedback. I feel like I belong.
About the Community Visitor program
The Community Visitor Program promotes and protects the rights of adults with impaired capacity who live in supported accommodation. Visitors are independent statutory appointees who regularly visit facilities, talk to clients, identify issues and help resolve complaints.