Published on Friday, 12 December 2014 at 12:00:00 AM
The Onslow Keepers delighted in a day full of activity on Friday 28 November with a special tour of the Wheatstone Plant, a scrumptious Christmas lunch and entertainment performed by local school children.
Initially formed in March 2011, Onslow Keepers are local residents over the age of 55, and are the Keepers of some of Onslow’s most valuable history. They gather together on the first Wednesday of every month for morning tea and always welcome new members, visitors and activities.
Dawn McAullay, who moved to Onslow as an 11 year old 65 years ago, said everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day. “We especially enjoyed the bus trip out to the Wheatstone site, the delicious meal that Bonnie prepared, the performance by the children from Mrs Harris’ class, and singing Christmas songs,” said Dawn.
Among the Onslow Keepers are some of the most long-standing residents in the community. “Today was very special,” said Vicki Davidson from Onslow Home and Community Care Services (HACC). “The clients just loved it, the meal was great and the children were excellent. It’s always a pleasure to have children around when you have aged people – they always bring a smile to their faces, so we really appreciate it and thank everyone.”
Onslow Keeper Brian Windsor was impressed by the Wheatstone tour. “The lunch was beautiful and the tour was very interesting. We saw the construction of the gas plant, and compared to last year the changes are massive.”
The Onslow Keepers program represents one of the first steps towards developing initiatives that support an age-friendly community in Onslow.
This is reflected in both the Shire’s strategic direction and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
“In particular, we’re focused on two key principles developed by WHO; Social Participation and Respect & Inclusion,” said Shire President Kerry White.
“Engaging the local children encourages integration, learning local knowledge and sharing stories which is especially important in small communities like Onslow where a sense of place and identity is vitally important. The stories and personalities represented by the Onslow Keepers are a significant contribution which shapes the town and sustains its unique character."
The Christmas lunch was generously hosted by the Onslow Sports Club, sponsored by the Chevron operated Wheatstone Project and organised by the Onslow Community Development Team. A tour of the Wheatstone Project was a highlight and Bonnie’s Catering Services provided Christmas lunch.
For more information about the Onslow Keepers contact Kaylah Lloyd, Onslow Activity Officer on 9184 9307.
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