After more than 17 years' service to the Donald Simpson Community Centre, manager and well known public figure Ernie Harrison has hung up his desk phone for the last time and stepped into retirement.
Ernie began work as centre manager on St Patricks' Day in 1997, bringing with him his experience gained from 23 years' service to the Waterloo Bay Leisure Centre in Wynnum, where he had held a leading role since the centre was in its planning stages.
During his time at the Donald Simpson Community Centre, formerly the Donald Simpson Over 50s Leisure Centre, Ernie oversaw and started many programs, developments, activities and events.
He said of all the programs he started, the centre's annual blanket drive had most captured the community's imagination.
"Of everything I've done in my life, nothing has been up to the level of inspiration the blanket drive has created," he said.
"I am thankful for the many blessings I have received over the years and the windows of opportunity that I have taken up and turned into benefit for all people."
His long-time offsider and administration manager Linda White said Ernie had been a supportive and committed manager.
Board chairman Tony Christinson, who will assume a temporary management role until a new manager is appointed, said the board had elected to name the centre's annual blanket drive after him in recognition of his dedicated service.
