Joan’s motto is always be active

WARATAH Bay local, Joan Newman (92), received a Council on the Ageing Victoria Senior Achiever Award at the 2021 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.
And her advice is simple – always be active and be interested.

“I think it’s a shame so many people sit back and wait for things to happen instead of going out and making it happen.

“The award has brought more friendships.

“People down at the local shopping centre say ‘hello, how are you getting on?’

“I think the publicity encourages other people to participate in local events.”

A vibrant and active member of the community, Joan was recognised for almost single-handedly organising the community’s annual Charlie Brown Day for over the past decade.

In her daily life, she volunteers at the Fish Creek Op Shop on Saturday mornings, knits children’s jumpers and toys for local charities, in addition to caring for unwell and lonely neighbours, amongst others.

“People coming and going – they talk about their problems and your problems – it’s a very social morning (at the Op Shop) between coffees.

“Regrettably some of my older neighbours have moved away but I still cook for two families.

“And of course, I’ve been to the Austin Hospital – I’ve been a guinea pig for Alzheimer’s research there for over twenty years.”

Last year, alongside Dr David Iser, Joan raised more than $10,000 for the local hospital through a book about her life which included events like a near fatal car accident and being rescued by the US Navy from a sinking yacht.

“I was on board a yacht in the Mediterranean when it started to sink – I was rescued alongside my two crew by the USS Preble.

“We were towed to Palma de Mallorca and that started a friendship that has now been roughly 30 years. 

“The young sailor who was in charge of the detail is now the Secretary of the US Navy.”

“I lead a fairly quiet life chasing the wildlife – the wallabies, the wombats, the echidnas, possums,” Joan giggled.

For more than 25 years, the Victorian Seniors Festival has recognised the volunteer work and community contributions of older Victorians.

There are six categories which encompass the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards and are presented annually each October as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival.
For more information or to make a nomination visit seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/awards.

Nominations close on Friday, July 29.