Silver Chain's 100th birthday bash

BEACON and Bencubbin were in the spotlight last month when Silver Chain's centenary vehicle rolled into town as part of a special centenary drive throughout the state to celebrate the organisation's 100-year anniversary of caring in the community.

The centenary vehicle will be in Merredin on May 10, and is "a way of uniting people throughout rural and remote Western Australia who have an association with Silver Chain, whether as a staff member, volunteer, client or donor," said Silver Chain's Remote Area Nurse Leonie Sharp.

The country leg of the centenary drive will take three months to complete, during which time it will visit Silver Chain's 21 rural and 11 remote service centres.

A metropolitan drive is also planned for later in the year.

"It is wonderful that Merredin is involved in this way with Silver Chain's centenary celebrations," Ms Sharp said.

"The day is going to be a real celebration for many people who live in the town %u2013 Silver Chain is well loved and supported in the community and many people are getting involved with the celebrations to show their appreciation for the organisation."

To mark the occasion the Merredin and Districts Visitor Centre, together with the Merredin Silver Chain personnel, are planning an exhibition of Silver Chain memorabilia.

Visitor Centre manager Pam Masters said the display will include the association of the Rabbit Proof Fence worker Arthur Grundy in the naming of the Silver Chain as well as the history and scope of the organisation.

"We are looking for anyone who may have been associated with the Silver Chain Nursing Association and may have some photos, old uniforms or equipment that could be loaned to enhance the display," Ms Masters said.

"I am a great fan of the Silver Chain as they assisted both of my parents in their older years and through illness; I am sure there are many people who have the same feelings and would like to show their appreciation of the organisation."

The exhibition will include a silver or gold coin chain on the pavement, which was a common way for the organisation to raise funds in the past to support a district nurse. Those attending the exhibition will be able to donate by adding to the chain.

Items for the display can be dropped off at the Visitor Centre; for more information contact Pam Masters on 9041 1666.

Article from http://merredin.yourguide.com.au