Hazel Brownlow has been giving her time to the Warilla Neighbourhood Centre for almost 30 years, and has no intention to stop anytime soon. Subscribe now for unlimited access . $ 0 / (min cost $ 0 ) Login or signup to continue reading The adored 80-year-old volunteer and former president of the board has delighted in watching the community hub grow.
The not-for-profit began from a small house on Shellharbour Road in 1974 after concerned residents saw a need to bring services closer to the suburb, and now runs out of a large purpose-built space on Benaud Crescent. "When I come in 1995 we were given some money from the premier's department and we got this beautiful building in November 2006," Ms Brownlow said. "We've just got so many more programs happening now.
It's really really busy." More than 250 children per week visit the centre for various programs, including youth groups and a breakfast club. Ms Brownlow has also delighted in watching them grow, some of her fondest memories being dressing up as Mrs Claus for them at Christmas time.
"If I'm at the shops, children from the youth group, even when they've left after turning 17, they'll come up to me and say 'Hi Hazel, how are you going?' and give me a hug," she said. The centre was a bustling with activity on Saturday as families came out in droves to celebrate it's 50 th anniversary. Eight-year-old Dakota is one of the many children who frequent the centre for fun after-school activities, with painting being her favourite.