Gary Thorpe named as one of Australia’s most influential and inspiring

Silver Memories' General Manager, Gary Thorp OAM, has been named one of Pro Bono Australia's 2022's most inspiring and influential people working for social change. This year more than 21,000 people participated by voting for Pro Bono's Impact 25 Awards.

With over 40 years of broadcasting experience, Thorpe developed Silver Memories in 2007 to address social isolation in the aged in the community. Gary was awarded a Churchill Fellowship in 2011 to research the use of music in the management of dementia and related issues.

“The immense joy and benefits that Silver Memories has brought listeners across the country has been a testament to the effectiveness of the service,” Thorpe said.

“Our Patron, Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO, recognises the importance of this service in the community and is one of its strongest supporters. Over the past 15 years, Silver Memories has grown to be one of the most vital services in aged care, with live performances and travelling road shows supplementing the 24/7 nostalgia music broadcasting service and accompanying visuals.”

Jon Bisset, CBAA's CEO, said, "“As a previous judge of the Pro Bono Impact 25 Awards, I know firsthand the outstanding calibre of entrants. To have Gary chosen for his efforts is fantastic recognition of his contribution to the community broadcasting sector and for his work connecting our older communities.”

Silver Memories has attracted internationally renowned Ambassadors including ‘The Angel of Australia’, Mirusia, together with the versatile Australian tenor, Paul Tabone, and the ever popular Andrew Sisters Tribute Band. The service has been widely embraced in aged care facilities across Australia including Arcare, Bolton Clarke, Blue Care and many others.

Not only available to aged care residents, Silver Memories is also available to people living at home via a custom-designed and competitively priced app, available for android and iPad use. 

In addition to Silver Memories, Thorpe also manages 4MBS Classic FM – Brisbane’s multi award-winning classical station.

When asked what he will be doing to celebrate, the ever-humble Thorpe laughed: “Silver Memories is organising some more concerts and roadshows in aged care homes locally and interstate as we know it brings so much joy to the residents and staff in these difficult times.”