Geelong local community hero(ine) honoured
The Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot, has honoured Geelong community hero(ine) Jenny Dew, with a Community Service Award in Grovedale, Geelong.
The award recognises individuals or organisations that provide outstanding service to older Australians.
Mrs Elliot made the announcement at an official visit to meet a newly formed choir for carers and carer recipients with dementia at the Community Hall at Geelong Grove Retirement Village.
The choir is an initiative by Best of Care, which provides respite care programs funded under the Australian Government’s National Respite for Carers Program (NRCP).
“Carers are the backbone of our nation and Jenny Dew is a wonderful example of a dedicated and committed carer. Jenny has achieved so much and has been supported by Career Angels, which helps her help others,” said Mrs Elliot.
Jenny has been a full-time carer since her husband had a stroke four years ago and has used her experience to benefit others in the community, becoming heavily involved in providing and encouraging support for other carers.
“Jenny Dew is a very worthy recipient of the award and is an inspiration to the local community.
“The award is an Australian Government initiative designed to recognise the contribution of people whose efforts might otherwise go unremarked.
“I also commend the hard working staff at Best of Care,” Mrs Elliot said.
Jenny is part of a group of carers that in 2007 produced a book about their experiences titled, Brain Storm – 7 Stories of Love, Support and Courage After Brain Injury.