Bunbury’s Lynda Whitton wins prestigious MS Australia Award
“I’m not one to sit and expect others to do things for me, I set about making life changes to help me down this new path.”
Diagnosed with MS in 1996, Lynda Whitton has dedicated the past three decades to advocating, supporting and bringing together others on a similar journey.
Lynda’s drive, determination, and resourcefulness make her a deserving recipient of MS Australia’s highest honour—the 2024 John Studdy Award. This prestigious award recognises outstanding, consistent, and selfless service spanning 10 or more years, honouring those who have made a tangible difference in the lives of people affected by MS.
Lynda’s impact has been particularly felt in regional WA, especially in her hometown of Bunbury, where she served as the Bunbury Outreach Group President for 20 years. Her leadership was instrumental in connecting peers and fostering a sense of belonging and community.
“My passion for helping anyone comes from life ethics taught by my parents,” Lynda said.
“If a job needs doing, do it. If someone needs help, help them. And always look for the positive. I know the difficulties and uncertainty anyone with MS is going through, so if I’m in a position to help them, I do it willingly.”
One of Lynda’s proudest achievements is helping establish the Bunbury Swim fundraising event, which began in 2014 and raised an impressive $55,000 within the first year. All proceeds went toward building the fully accessible, purpose-built MSWA Bunbury Service Centre, which opened in 2016. The centre’s opening doubled the workforce delivering these vital services, benefiting 100 Clients annually.
Additionally for 13 years, Lynda steadfastly ensured the WA neurological community had a voice at the national table as an MS Australia National Advocate, promoting the profile of MS Australia and its aims on a voluntary basis.
MS Australia’s CEO Rohan Greenland praised Lynda’s extraordinary contributions, highlighting the importance of recognising those who make a lasting impact in the MS community.
“For decades, Lynda Whitton has been a powerful advocate, leader and fundraiser for the MS and the broader neurological community, and this recognition is thoroughly deserved.”
While Lynda has received many accolades, she remains humble about her achievements.
“Just being nominated was a surprised and an honour in itself. It’s also one I don’t feel I deserve – this could be shared with so many wonderful people who are also doing amazing thing for people with MS.”
Today, Lynda remains focused on supporting Bunbury’s neurological community while cherishing her time with her grandchildren.
“I have eight beautiful grandchildren who melt my heart, so my focus on life now as I get older is to be the best nana I can. It’s the best job in the world.”
We’re incredibly grateful for Lynda’s longstanding contributions to MSWA and inspired by her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of people with neurological conditions, both in WA and across the nation.
