As we look back on the year that was, we are inspired by the many individuals and communities within the City of Gosnells and Canning who have come together in the spirit of hope, healing, and positive change.
From raising awareness of critical health issues to transforming local spaces into sanctuaries of peace, members of our community continue to demonstrate the impact a small few can have on the lives of many.
One of the standout events this year was the 25th anniversary of Amanda’s Garden Fete in Southern River. The fete, run by Barry and Lorraine Young, raised nearly $35,000 to support the Amanda Young Foundation and its mission to raise awareness of meningococcal disease.
Named after their daughter, Amanda, who tragically passed away from the disease in 1997, the foundation continues to make a tangible impact, helping reduce the number of meningococcal disease cases in Western Australia through its public awareness efforts.
Over 2,000 people attended the garden fete, where they enjoyed a variety of entertainment, displays, and, of course, the stunning garden itself.
Local nurseries generously donated plants and seedlings, contributing to the success of the fundraiser.
Barry Young expressed his deep gratitude, noting the immense satisfaction he and Lorraine feel seeing the community’s unwavering support year after year.
He shared that while Amanda’s life was cut short, her legacy lives on through the foundation’s work.
“We’re just so pleased to get the support of the community on an annual basis,” Barry Young said.
In Gosnells, another community initiative has been making a profound impact, the Salvation Army’s Community Garden of Hope.
Founded by Mark Curtis, the garden is a sanctuary of peace and healing, offering a space for individuals from all walks of life to come together.
Maintained primarily by dedicated volunteers and community members, the garden grows a variety of fruits and vegetables, offering fresh produce to those who help tend to it.
The garden also features an amphitheatre for contemporary church gatherings, a large communal table, and a yarning circle.
For Mark, who transformed his life through the neighbouring Harry Hunter Rehabilitation Centre, the space is more than just a garden; it’s a place to find solace, build relationships, and experience healing.
“When people come to this space, they start engaging and they’re not all on their phone. So they’re actually having meaningful conversations and sharing a meal together,” Mark Curtis said.
“I think it’s really good for people’s mental health to connect that way.”
Meanwhile, in the face of a personal battle with stage four metastatic breast cancer, Linda Billington has been a beacon of hope and resilience for the Gosnells community.
Since her diagnosis, the mother and grandmother has dedicated her life to supporting breast cancer research.
Through her Rockin’ the Pink women’s group, Linda has raised nearly $29,000 for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Linda’s high tea fundraiser, held at the Gosnells Golf Club last October, raised an astounding $14,931, with around 143 attendees showing their support for breast cancer research.
“I really don’t want any family to go through what my family and friends have been through in the last four years,” Ms Billington said.
“It’s a horrible, horrible disease, and the sooner we find a cure for this, the better off the world will be.”
Linda’s commitment to the cause extends beyond fundraising, she also hosted fitness sessions known as “Dance Like Nobody’s Watching,” which encouraged women of all ages and abilities to come together in a fun, non-judgmental environment.
Her dedication to supporting the search for a cure and empowering women to take charge of their health has made a lasting impact on the community.
Whether it’s through supporting those affected by diseases, creating spaces for healing and connection, or raising funds for vital health research, these individuals have shown that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope.
These stories are just some of the remarkable work people in our local community are doing to make a difference, showcasing the strength of compassion, kindness, and love. We look forward to sharing more stories of hope, kindness and compassion with you in 2025.
