Community volunteers selfless actions celebrated

UNITED COMMUNITY: June Young, Leanne Hodder, Amanda Darmanin, Norma Dyer, Carmel Monk, Mary Sommerfield, Billie Beaumount, Kathy Martin, Peter Martin, Patsy Rutland, Pam Tongue, Betty Hale and Lily Borrett united as one to celebrate National Carers Week sharing a cup of coffee and a laugh.

UNITED COMMUNITY: June Young, Leanne Hodder, Amanda Darmanin, Norma Dyer, Carmel Monk, Mary Sommerfield, Billie Beaumount, Kathy Martin, Peter Martin, Patsy Rutland, Pam Tongue, Betty Hale and Lily Borrett united as one to celebrate National Carers Week sharing a cup of coffee and a laugh.

LIMESTONE COAST volunteer carers were recognised by a South East retirement village this week, celebrating their selfless actions within the community.

Senior residents at Eureka Mount Gambier Retirement Village welcomed the public to celebrate National Carers Week on Wednesday in recognition of the enormous contribution carers make around the world.

“Life is unpredictable and for the 2.7 million unpaid carers around Australia who span all walks of life this event is our way of giving back and recognising the incredible work our carers do,” Eureka Mount Gambier Retirement Village managers Peter and Kathy Martin said.

“It creates a community connection and lets people know they can rely on one another to help get them through the day,” Mr Martin said.

Held for the first time, the village hopes the event grows in years to come.

“We did not know how many people would come but we hope to double it next year,” Mr Martin said.

“We handed out roses to those that have come to the village as unpaid carers, giving them a thank you gift.

“Carers can burn out too as caring people are givers, we need to remember to look after those that look after us.”

Village residents enjoyed the social outing, celebrating the unsung heroes that help on a regular basis.

“They do not have a uniform or badge so a simple thank you will do,” retirement village resident Peter Young said.

“I have just been diagnosed with cancer and I am lucky that my wife comes in every day to help me do the little things that count.

“Some days it is just hard to get out of bed, as we get old things are a lot harder and sometimes we need help.”

The gold coin donation event showcased the bonds formed between village residents with all funds raised donated to Carers Australia.