Never say Di: No slowing down for Senior Community Citizen of the Year

The 67-year-old Churchlands resident received the accolade on Australia Day.

“It’s great to be honoured and acknowledged for the hard work I’ve put in,” Ms Watts said.

“It started with the Red Cross and I’ve raised money for Solariscare and the Royal WA Historical Society and now I’m moving on to Arthritis WA and the WA Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).

“My main aim now is to help the WAAPA musicians with a concert coming up in the next few months. They are the future of music and they’re extremely talented.”

A brain tumour in 2002 led Ms Watts to helping others.

“My doctor said after one year recovering from the brain tumour that I should just call the Red Cross and tell them they need me.

“After I was able to walk and not have to eat everything out of a straw, I made the call. I want to inspire people to volunteer.”

The mother of three daughters and grandmother of six children said volunteering helped her recovery.

“It gave me the courage to come back out and even get back to paid work,” Ms Watts said.

Stirling Mayor Giovanni Italiano said the nominees across the categories were wonderful and active citizens who contributed so much to the community.

“The time and personal effort they devote goes above and beyond the usual community participation and I have the highest respect for them,” he said.