Our People
31 August, 2026
A hot meal and a friendly face
EVERY week, a team of dedicated volunteers go to work delivering a vital service for older residents. Meals on Wheels is a lifeline for many older residents providing them with a hot, nutritious meal, but also a point of contact with another human being.
Wednesday was National Meals on Wheels Day and the Advocate caught up with one of the volunteers and a local resident who utilises the service.
Jenny Pearce has been delivering hot meals to residents for a number of years and she speaks glowingly about the service and the positive impact it has.
“It’s many years ago when I started, then I had a break, came back, then it stopped again during COVID and then I started again after COVID.
“I can see anything from five to ten people a day. Sometimes people head off to Queensland for holidays so there aren’t so many in winter.
Mrs Pearse said delivering Meals on Wheels is very rewarding, but more volunteers are always needed.
“Usually there is a shortage.
“The number of delivery people goes up and down so they do from time to time send out a message they need more volunteers.
Mrs Pearce was delivering Meals on Wheels to 83 year-old Helen Darbyshire when the Advocate dropped by on Tuesday.
Mrs Darbyshire receives Meals on Wheels just once a week and said she appreciates the program and the variety.
“I have it once a week, on a Tuesday. I just love it.
“At different times I’ve had them all week and they are just beautiful, they are really delicious meals,” she said.
“I don’t mind cooking but this is just lovely. It’s just marvellous the services we get,” Mrs Darbyshire said.
“I feel for the ones who don’t get out. I can still drive but not everyone is that lucky.
Mrs Pearce said apart from the delivery of a nutritious meal, the human element of Meals on Wheels is also important.
“Sometimes I am the only person who comes during the day. Sometimes you get a but concerned when you rung the bell and no one answers. Usually when that happens I ring back to East Grampians (Health Service) and they’re usually running late from an appointment or something like that.
Manager of EGHS@Home Janelle Smith said Meals on Wheels is about so much more than food.
“I see the difference this service makes to people in our community. It helps people remain independent, connected and supported while living in their own homes,” she said.
“Monday to Friday, our EGHS kitchen staff prepare and pack the meals with care. Then our wonderful team of Meals on Wheels volunteers takes over.
“Our volunteers don't simply deliver a meal. For many of the people we support, seeing a familiar and friendly face can be just as important. A quick chat at the door, a smile and a ‘How are you going today?’ can make a real difference, particularly for people who may spend much of their day on their own.”
Mrs Darbyshire revealed Tuesday’s lunch was roast pork with apple sauce and vegetables.
“Look at this,” she said. “Delicious.”
“You also get a cup of soup and a desert, often an apple crumble or something like that.
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