Life membership for Joe Higgins
“My father is a very social and very down to earth man, and he received a lot of pleasure and joy from being part of an organisation which was able to help those struggling and less fortunate.” During his time with the Society, Mr Higgins worked in many roles including as a truck driver, Emergency Relief assistance provider and treasurer of the St Therese’s conference. Mr Higgins was awarded a Life Membership certificate on 23 January 2025 to signify his dedication to giving back to the community. “He was very proud of it,” Julia said. “My father is very humble about the work he has undertaken over the years, but also so very happy about the recognition.” Mr Higgins was presented his certificate by St Vincent de Paul Tasmania CEO, Heather Kent, together with the Misson and Membership Manager, Melissa White. During the presentation, Mr Higgins told Ms Kent and Ms White about his extensive experience with the Society. “We are so grateful for Mr Higgins’ years of service to the St Vincent de Paul Society,” Ms Kent said. “For over 60 years he helped the most vulnerable people in Tasmania, and we are proud to honour him as a Life Member of Vinnies.” Joe passed away in October 2025 and the St Vincent de Paul Society would like to express its deepest condolences to Joe’s family. “From raising awareness about the issues faced by our community, to organising donation drives, primary- aged students have the potential to make a meaningful difference.”
There were smiles all around when 90-year-old Joe Higgins was honoured in early 2025 as a Life Member of the St Vincent de Paul Society for his role as a Vincentian Member for more than 60 years. According to the Society’s records, Mr Higgins joined in 1962 and was a member of St Therese’s conference in Moonah for most of that period. “My father loved the work he did with the Society over the years and is sad to have finished in the role,” Mr Higgins’ daughter Julia said.
Mission and Membership Manager Melissa White (left) and CEO Heather Kent with Joe Higgins
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ST VINCENT DE PAUL (TAS) LTD | ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT 2024-25
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