By Ashleigh Fielding | posted on September 23, 2017
AFTER 13 years, Graham Reside finds it quite humbling that his father is still being recognised for his contributions to the Great Southern community.
The Bill Reside Community Centre was officially opened last Thursday by the Albany Community Care Centre and Albany and Regional Volunteer Service, with an afternoon tea amongst friends and family.
Graham and his siblings, Ruth and Merv, cut the ribbon on the new centre, and fondly reflected on their father’s life.
Mr Reside was the first chairperson of the original Albany Lions Community Care Centre in 1987, and received numerous awards and medals in recognition of his community work, including the British Empire Medal in 1981, the Red Cross Service Award in 1988, the Long Service Medal in 1995 and Citizen of the Year in 1996.
ARVS manager Tracy Sleeman remembered Mr Reside’s legacy and his efforts across the Great Southern.
“He was instrumental in creating the first community centre and today we acknowledge the insight and commitment of Bill to our community,” Ms Sleeman said.
The afternoon tea also celebrated the launch of the Albany and Regional Volunteer Service’s newest project, the ‘Giving Whilst Living’ guide.
The booklet lists different groups in the Great Southern which rely heavily on ongoing community support and donations, and provides details on how to donate to them.
“This booklet gives much needed attention to local community support groups and not-for-profit organisations,” ARVS chairperson Judith Williams said.
