Older People Speak Out (OPSO)

Older People Speak Out is an independent, free-spirited group with the experience, knowledge and qualifications to speak out on older people's issues without fear or favour. OPSO consults with older people and researches needs and issues, and lobbies government, professional organisations and businesses, and the whole community. The organisation also conducts a broad range of communication and working with the media courses and teaches people to speak out on their own behalf. Members consult with people across Queensland, and act as a contact for older people wishing to bring their concerns and issues to the stakeholders. OPSO also runs Years Ahead courses with the RACQ for organisations wishing to update their members' driving skills. OPSO's Queensland and National Media Awards over the last 14 years have helped break down the negative stereotypes of older people. They recognise those journalists, photographers and advertisers who, with excellence, best portray the contribution the older generations are making to the community, as well as the significance of their issues. The new People's Choice Awards give the public of all ages the opportunity to monitor the media, select articles, radio or television news or public affairs programmes, interviews, newspaper articles, photographs or advertisements and write in 50 words or less why they believe their nomination best illustrates the contribution older people make to the community. Nomination forms are available on the OPSO web page, or by email or phone order.