A dedicated group of retired home carers from the former Shire of Melton continue to honour decades of community service, meeting regularly to share lunch, celebrate birthdays, and keep alive the camaraderie formed through years of caring for local families.
The tradition brings together women who worked across the shire’s early home help, HACC, aged and disability, meals on wheels, respite and community services programs.
Among the regular attendees are three of the program’s earliest carers, including Rosemary Bradley, who joined in 1972, Mary Hicks in 1975, and Margaret Radford in 1976.
Their history traces back to 1971, when then shire secretary Max Watson recognised the growing need for in-home support for residents recovering from illness, families with multiple births, and households raising children with disabilities.
The home help service began with just a few local women and was coordinated by shire health department staff member Lynn Van Dullemen.
Transport was not always easy, as some carers walked or rode bicycles to homes to deliver their services, a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Others were driven by Lyn, who also visited staff in person to coordinate weekly rosters.
As Melton eventually expanded, so too did the program.
Sister Ros Gleeson was appointed home help supervisor in 1976, helping formalise the service into a strong, coordinated team.
Ms Van Dullemen, Helen Dobson and Michelle Delios now join their past colleagues at the regular lunches, where decades of shared work and community connection continue to be celebrated.
“It’s very rewarding to maintain these friendships,” Ms Van Dullemen said.
“Our get-togethers are thoroughly enjoyed by all.”
