24 April 2021
As part of the Clean Up Australian initiative, personnel from HMAS Watson volunteered their time at a nearby childcare centre.
Executive Officer Commander Tina Brown once again encouraged volunteers to engage with the community this time in the form of a visit to a childcare centre – Vaucluse Cottage.
For Seaman Rowan West, who is in his first year in Navy, it was an amazing opportunity to do something different for the community.
“It was so inspiring to engage with the children within the local community and I was humbled by their enthusiasm to learn about the Navy and the history of Anzac Day,” Seaman West said.
“I think these engagements are so important and show that there are so many ways we can help and support the Australian public.”
Vaucluse Cottage Coordinator Emma Wholihan was also pleased with the visit.
“Every evening we collaborate alongside the Royal Australian Navy which is always educational and really engaging,” Ms Wholihan said.
“Today was no exception and being able to share it with our sister centres across Sydney was fantastic. I hope we can continue to grow this wonderful friendship.”
After a tour of the centre, Ms Wholihan organised a Zoom call to the 11 other care centres across Sydney that make up the Active Kids Care Group.
Children from all across Sydney listened to discussions about why Anzac Day was so important to both Australians and New Zealanders.
Lucy, 3, expressed her feelings on the visit .
“Our Navy friends played with us. We learnt about Anzac Day and me and my friends got some teddies to share. I loved it.” Lucy said.
HMAS Watson will continue to engage with the local community through future activities and events.
