Mayor’s wheely grateful

Baw Baw Shire Council volunteers Robyn Cotter, Jen Berryman and Kay McCoy.

This year’s National Meals on Wheels Day saw Baw Baw Shire thank its 300 volunteers.
On 30 August, Baw Baw Shire Mayor Joe Gauci expressed his appreciation for the staff and volunteers who are continually committed to providing meals to the Baw Baw Shire community.
Meals on Wheels sees the council’s community services team and dedicated volunteers deliver meals to people with a variety needs including seniors, people with disabilities, and those recovering from illness, injury or surgery.
In the 2016/17 financial year alone, the Baw Baw Shire program has provided 24,890 meals to the doorsteps of 377 clients in need of a helping hand.
Councillor Gauci said this equated to 6483 hours of assistance provided to the community.
“I would like to especially thank the 300 local community volunteers who dedicate time out of their day to load up the vans and drive around our shire delivering these vital meals,” the mayor said.
Cr Gauci said Meals on Wheels was more than just a food delivery service – it provided residents with a very valuable welfare check daily and a smiling face to brighten their day.
“Sometimes the people receiving these services need a bit of extra help after an operation or stint of bad health, but in most cases the meals are provided on an on-going basis for people who, for various reasons, are unable to prepare food for themselves,” Cr Gauci said.
“The wonderful volunteers do a great job and make a real difference in people’s lives.
“Its services like this that assists the elderly and those with disabilities to remain living independently for as long as possible.”