Regis Blackburn welcomes Keith and Betty Rooney who have had lifelong dedication to charity
Keith and Betty Rooney have dedicated their lives to their community and moving into aged care at Regis Blackburn won’t stop them from pursuing their passion for helping others.
East
Don't miss out on the headlines from East . Followed categories will be added to My News.
Two of Regis Blackburn’s newest residents say they’ll continue with their lifelong dedication to charity work for as long as they can.
Keith and Betty Rooney have lived in Blackburn since 1957 and will celebrate their 66th wedding anniversary on February 13, just a few weeks after celebrating Mr Rooney’s 90th birthday.
In the decades since moving to the area they’ve left their mark on the suburb by helping start up a number of preschools and tennis clubs, and by getting involved with conservation work at Blackburn Lake.
Mr Rooney served as mayor of the former City of Nunawading in 1968 and ‘69.
On top of volunteering her time with a number of charities, Mrs Rooney helped set up the first women’s refuge in the eastern suburbs.
Mrs Rooney also helped with disability charities, even volunteering her time to provide personal respite care for mums of disabled children.
Both are previous recipients of Whitehorse Council’s Citizen of the Year award.
“It’s great to be involved in the community. It’s hands on work but it’s the best thing you can do,” Mr Rooney said.
“It’s lovely when everyone can join in and be a part of it,” Mrs Rooney said.
MORE: THE GLEN’S STILL OPEN
THOUSANDS OF PHONE LINES AT RISK
GREAT DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION OFFER
Mr Rooney said the couple felt “comfortable and secure” since moving into Regis late last year.
“Moving to aged care can be a traumatic time for many people but everything was handled with efficiency and compassion and our many questions answered promptly.”