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Constance (Connie) Marie Curtain

Tasmanian Honour Roll of Women logo

Awarded for service to the Community

Born: 17 September 1924

Died: 26 February 1989

Entered on roll: 2011


Constance (Connie) Marie Curtain was born in Sydney in 1924.

In 1949, Connie moved from Sydney to Maydena.  She married Felix Curtain and became an active member of the Derwent Valley community while raising six children including their eldest (Margaret) who was born with Down’s Syndrome. 

A considerable proportion of Connie’s life was spent working for the betterment of services and recreational activities for people with disabilities in Tasmania.

While supporting her husband in his role as a long-term serving Councillor on the New Norfolk Council, Connie was involved with many organisations including the Parents and Friends Association; the Catholic Women’s League; and the Country Women’s Association.

In the early 1970s, following the death of her husband and birth of their seventh child, Connie became involved with the Talire Special School which her daughter, Margaret, had attended.  She also became actively involved with the Retarded Citizen’s Welfare Association (RCWA).  Connie undertook fundraising activities and committee roles for many years.

In 1978, Connie was recognised for her hard work and was awarded the title of the RCWA Tasmanian Woman of the Year.  This title saw her travel the State for the next year in order to raise community awareness around issues for those living with disabilities.

Connie went on to become a founding member of COSMOS Inc in the early 1980s.  This was the first recreational service for people with disabilities in Tasmania. 

During the 1980s, Connie accompanied Southern Tasmanian teams to Special Olympics’ intrastate, interstate and overseas events helping out with team coordination.  Connie was also associated with Riding for the Disabled.

Connie worked on the COSMOS Committee of Management until her cancer diagnosis in 1988.  Connie died in 1989 shortly after being diagnosed with cancer.  Connie is well-remembered for her commitment and perseverance in enhancing the lives of people with disabilities.

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