About 80 residents, along with MercyCare board directors and staff, celebrated the village’s 15-year anniversary with an afternoon tea, music and dancing.
Among the guests were 28 of the original village residents, affectionately known as ‘the pioneers’, who happily shared stories and memories of their Wembley home over a cuppa.
Today, the village comprises of 82 villas and 36 apartments and is home to 155 people who form a close-knit community that enjoys social dinners, outings and entertainment.
MercyCare CEO Anthony Smith said the anniversary was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on how far the village has come and all it has to offer but stipulated that residents were the heart and soul of the village.
“You bring it to life,” Mr Smith said.
“This is a vibrant place that continues the story of MercyCare. Thank you for being part of it.”
The celebration also honoured the dedication of two residents who between them, have volunteered more than half a century for MercyCare.
For the last 33 years, Sister Betty McMahon has played the piano for residents at the Wembley Residential Aged Care Home, entertaining them with music and memories from by-gone days.
“I enjoyed going up there every month and playing for the residents, I hope they enjoyed it too,” Sister Betty said.
Joan Langton is the current Chair of the village residents committee and an active community member.
Mrs Langton devoted 23 years to supporting MercyCare’s administration team as a volunteer and is actively involved in the Wembley RAC Bingo nights.
“I’ve enjoyed every minute of my time at MercyCare,” she said.
