Memories from Alfie

On a regular basis we receive feedback from our previous clients. Alfie shares with us, reflecting on his time at Stewart House.

My name is Alfie, I will be turning 71 this June 2018. I had the pleasure of attending Stewart House several times some 60 years ago when I was about 10-11 and 12 years of age.  While reminiscing over my past life I was overwhelmed coming across some memories of my stay at Stewart House.

How well do I remember my stay, I believe the school teacher’s name at that time was Mr Engram or England or something like that.  I recall him teaching us basket weaving and the song Botany Bay, enjoying his style of educating children. He also came with the children on our excursions to the Zoo, and to the theatre so watch “Around the World in Eighty Days”. I also remember how much I missed talking to him.

The cabins then and now, accommodation has improved over time:

I don’t recall the name of the dorm master but I do recall the double bunks and listening to the sound of the ocean while drifting off to sleep.  I recall he would take us on walks on the beach learning about shells and creatures that lived in the water and on the shoreline.

I remember the dining room and enjoying some foods that were new to me. I remember having a slice of bread and jam after school, and after beach walks getting ready for dinner. I remember the TV room, watching the “Micky Mouse Club” and singing along with their melodies.

 

I remember the staff members telling us stories and teaching us poetry and encouraging us to write our own. I remember friends we made some who I kept in touch with for many years.

At the time of my visit I was living in Hurstville and attended Kingsgrove Public School. For the past 33 years I have resided in the city of Rockhampton, Queensland. Whilst living in Sydney, I worked for the then MWS & DB (The Waterboard), received my diploma in human resources and majored in training. When I left Sydney and moved to Queensland I continued my vocation in training mostly assisting the less fortunate to get employment, including those with disabilities, youth at risk and many other target groups, something I loved doing.

My love and gratitude to your staff for participating in such a wonderful career, caring for children.

Please feel free to share this letter, yours sincerely, Alfie

Then and now, Taronga Zoo:

Popular excursions at Stewart House include:

• Taronga Zoo
• Australian Museum
• Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre
• Travel on the Manly Ferry
• Walks across the footpath on the Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Visits to local parks & attractions

Since 1931, Stewart House has been to changing the lives of children and to giving them hope and aspiration for the future. Stewart House provides recreational and experiential activities designed to enhance children’s social and emotional wellbeing, self-esteem and resilience.

For Stewart House to provide these vital services to around 1,700 children every year, we need to raise $4.5 million annually.  Across nine decades,  staff from NSW public schools have supported our worthy cause through salary donations. We appreciate their generosity and commitment to helping public school children living in difficult circumstances.

If you would like to make a donation please click here.