Red Cross Volunteer Lee Barham and her dedication to the seniors at the IRT Dalmeny retirement village have been recognised with a special award.
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Ms Barham was referred to the IRT through the Red Cross Community Visitors Scheme, and she has been volunteering with the IRT for more than three years now.
She was involved in the River Cottage Australia television show segment on Pets for Therapy, the cultural day when exchange students from Japan joined students from Moruya High School to visit and share experiences, and she has been there for the Betty Club from its inception.
It was Tuesday morning and, as usual, Ms Barham arrived ready for another day of interactions, laughter, games and fun with the residents of the Dalmeny IRT.
Her day starts with the Betty Club, a rapidly growing group of residents that meet throughout the week for morning tea, a general chat about current affairs and some trivia.
This Tuesday started out as normal, the Betty Club was in full force, morning tea was just being served when an unexpected visitor arrived; it was Rachael Niemoeller, the volunteer coordinator for the Red Cross.
Late last year, Ms Barham was nominated and selected to win the Ruth McPhee Voluntary Service Award. awarded by the Red Cross.
Although she herself knew that she had won the award, no-one else at IRT was aware. Unbeknownst to her, staff or the Betty Club attendees, IRT lifestyle coordinator Wendy Machin and Ms Niemoeller had teed it up for the award to be presented in the midst of the Betty Club morning tea.
Having the residents there to celebrate her award made the morning event even more special, according to Ms Machin.
Ms Barham was presented with the Ruth McPhee Voluntary Service Award, given in recognition of exceptional voluntary service and leadership to Australian Red Cross in South East NSW.
“Our heartfelt congratulations are extended to Lee for all her efforts and support over the last few years. IRT Dalmeny value you and the time you give each week. Thank you!” Ms Machin said.