Ninety-nine year old Ron and his Garden Village mates, Brian Langley and Bob Guthrie, together with Garden Village employee Tony Sullivan, took some time out on a boat navigating the Hastings River for a day of fishing and camaraderie.

A WWII veteran, Ron resides in the aged care facility and recently expressed fond memories of casting for black fish and his wish to have that opportunity again. 

The Garden Village team were able to fulfill this request through the Garden Village Dream Weaving program. 

Dream Weaving was established in 2011 with the aim of identifying resident’s dreams and bringing them to reality by removing limitations.

The black fish were stubborn due to the highest tide of the year, but Ron and his comrades had a few bites and enjoyed each other’s company.  They were also able to talk about “the one that got away” while enjoying lunch later in the day.

Bob Guthrie, a self care resident and experienced fisherman, said he appreciated being able to help a mate fulfill his dream of fishing.

Brian Langley, resident and skipper on the day, expressed his happiness at cruising the river, particularly along Hibbard Drive where he once lived and also built homes. 

Brian and Ron are old locals of the Port Macquarie area whose paths often crossed through work. 

Brian most enjoyed taking his old mate fishing, while discussing wonderful memories of time passed by.

On reflection, Ron said he had an enjoyable day in the company of Tony and friends in gorgeous weather, and as the black fish didn’t cooperate he would be thrilled to do it again with a great bunch of blokes.