If you’ve raised a family in Werribee, chances are you know Rosie Dunne.
Ms Dunne, 65, has spent the best part of four decades looking after little ones at weekly playgroups and activities organised through St Andrews.
Last Tuesday, after 38 years and many tears, she finally retired the volunteer role that has brought her endless joy.
Ms Dunne, who was diagnosed with polio when she was just a year old, said her body can’t keep up with the energy of her little charges.
“After 38 years, it’s hard to say goodbye,” she said.
Ms Dunne started up the church-run groups 38 years ago after moving to Werribee from Hampton.
“A lot of new families had moved into the area, and there was very little for anybody … Father Michael Nolan, our parish priest, asked us to a morning coffee and suggested we meet once a week with our kids for them to play.
“We were the first activity group in the Werribee area, and it was passed on to Laverton and then Hoppers Crossing, and now there are activity groups in different places.
“We’ve looked after kids who have become doctors and nurses … we’ve looked after lots and lots of children.”
Ms Dunne said it has also been a privilege to look after different generations of families.
Elly Keck, who does activity group with Ms Dunne each Tuesday, said the mother of two and grandmother of five is an inspiration.
“She’s a really lovely lady who loves kids,” Ms Keck said.
“She’s an amazing person.”
