General News
4 July, 2025
Legacy in support group
Maryborough and District Carer’s Support Group celebrate their 15th anniversary while reflecting on their co-founder's legacy.
Maryborough and District Carer’s Support Group has been providing essential support to its members for 15 years. It’s a “lifesaving” carer community group, one shaped by its co-founder Liz Howard, who passed away last week.
The support group came together on Tuesday, celebrating their milestone anniversary, and reflecting on Ms Howard’s profound legacy.
Members of just a few months to the whole 15 years have found community, support, and a chance to share their stories away from the 24/7 demands of care at the monthly meetings.
Although Ms Howard’s daughter, Vanessa Howard-Read, didn’t know what to expect from the meetings she was touched by the group’s warmth over the last few months.
“From the outside I was really moved and touched by some of their stories, what they actually do deal with on a day-to-day basis, and what they take on, and how their life is not really their own,” she said.
“You don’t know what these people are going through until you hear their stories.”
The group builds on the principle that a burden shared is a burden lightened — something Ms Howard was always willing to do.
When she received her diagnosis, that she only had months to live, Ms Howard had one immediate question: what would happen to the group?
“She’s worked so damn hard to create a space, an open honest no judgement space, for everyday ordinary people to be themselves,” Ms Howard-Read said.
“Her legacy is one of compassion.”
While the group will continue through her longtime friend and co-founder Barbara Clark’s stewardship — the reality is Ms Howard’s legacy is carried by every member her work touched.
Ellen Rebbechi, who has been a member for nine years, echoed a shared sentiment that Ms Howard radiated warmth.
“She gave us an opportunity to come to a safe space, to swear and carry on if we wanted to, to tell our stories,” she said.
Laughter was the group’s extra member, filling the room, and a familiar guest across Marilyn Walker’s 15 years.
“When you go, you’re laughing, and that’s all thanks to Liz,” she said.
Although Dorothy Wilson has only been a member for 6 months she said Ms Howard always made her feel welcome.
“A wonderful, wonderful lady,” she said.
They’re feelings Teresa Bourke echoed who recalled Ms Howard was always just a phone call away.
“I felt really welcome when I came in,” she said.
Marlene Bullock’s life, alongside many others, changed thanks to Ms Howard’s efforts.
“I don’t think I would have survived if it hadn’t been for her,” she said.
“We’ll carry on for her.”
There from the beginning Jan Gray said she, nor her son, would be where they are today without the group and their advice.
“It’s been my lifesaver in so many different ways. I’ve learned a lot of techniques,” she said.
“We’re all gonna miss her.”
Ms Howard-Read said her mum was the group’s rock — always advocating for carers and mental health support services alongside Ms Clark.
“She opened the door to anyone and everyone and now Barbara will continue this legacy on,” she said.
Those interested in joining the group, or just want to learn more, can call Barbara Clark on 0401 887 479
“I’ll be there all the way, till the end, just the same Liz was.”