Wanneroo pioneers at the 2019 lunch.
Camera IconWanneroo pioneers at the 2019 lunch. Credit: Supplied/Chris Kershaw Photographer

Wanneroo lunch recognises pioneers

Staff WriterWanneroo Times

MORE than 50 City of Wanneroo residents who have dedicated more than 50 years of their lives to the local community received recognition at the annual poneers lunch.

Mayor Tracey Roberts welcomed 54 pioneers and their guests to the July 31 event, held at the Wanneroo Civic Centre.

“Our pioneers are truly inspirational people – adventurous, hardworking and passionate, with a determination to build a prosperous community for themselves, their families and for future generations,” she said.

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“Early pioneering families worked incredibly hard, often during very difficult times, but they remained strong and resilient.

“We have them to thank for laying the foundations for what has become one of Australia’s fastest and largest growing cities.

“The Wanneroo of old was a time when the population was small in number but everyone looked out for one another with a caring and nurturing spirit.”

Several pioneers played integral roles in the day’s events including Lucy D’Olimpio who provided the pre-lunch entertainment with classic piano tunes, Nic Trandos who delivered a heart-warming speech and Jan Duffy who shared the story of the Duffy serum and how the Duffy blood group was discovered in 1950.

Between 1975 and 2016, the City recognised about 250 people who had lived in and contributed to the establishment of the area for 50 or more years.

It stopped recognising new people after 2016 but continues to hold a luncheon every year to honour existing pioneers.