50 Years Of Service To The Community At Bowen Meals On Wheels

On Saturday, November 23, Bowen Meals on Wheels marked a significant milestone, half a century of dedicated service to the community at a special celebration held at McKenna Hall.
The event was attended by clients, staff, volunteers, and guests, all coming together to commemorate 50 years of nourishing those in need. The celebration was made possible by funding generously provided by Hand, Heart, Pocket, the charitable donations arm of the Masonic Lodge Queensland.
Bowen Meals on Wheels began its humble journey on December 2, 1974, when its first delivery was made from the local Country Women’s Association (CWA) kitchen. On that inaugural day, just 20 meals were delivered, each priced at a modest 50 cents. This modest beginning, however, set the stage for what would become a vital community service.
In the early years, Bowen Meals on Wheels relied heavily on the support of various local organisations and individuals. Over the next five years, fundraising efforts gathered momentum, with contributions from the Lions Club, Rotary, local churches, the Pensioners’ League, and many other community groups. Their collective efforts enabled the completion of a dedicated Meals on Wheels building in 1979, located on land generously donated by the local council. This new facility allowed the service to expand and streamline its operations, ensuring that meals could be delivered more efficiently to those in need.
The first meals from the new Bowen Meals on Wheels building went out on July 16, 1979. By 1981, meal prices had risen slightly to $1.00. On September 25, 1986, Bowen Meals on Wheels Inc. was officially incorporated.
Today, Bowen Meals on Wheels Inc. continues to provide an essential service, delivering an average of 100 nutritious meals each week. The meals cater to a diverse range of recipients, including seniors, individuals recovering from hospital stays or major illnesses, people with disabilities, and those facing other special circumstances.
Despite challenges like Cyclone Debbie in 2017, the organisation has remained unwavering in its commitment to delivering meals, even in the face of natural disasters.
The anniversary event was a joyful occasion, with long-standing clients, volunteers, and staff celebrating the achievements of Bowen Meals on Wheels. One of the highlights of the day was the ceremonial cutting of the birthday cake by Bill Barty, a cherished long-time client. Bill was assisted by Peter Goodman, the Vice-President of Bowen Meals on Wheels, as they shared the special moment with the gathered crowd.
Bowen Meals on Wheels looks forward to many more years of making a meaningful impact on the lives of the people of Bowen.

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QLD Meals on Wheels representative, Kath Neilsen travelled from Brisbane to attend and presented Peter with a trophy which acknowledged the milestone. Photo supplied
Treasurer, Chris Storrie, took the opportunity to thank the many community groups and individuals who have given so much support throughout those 50 years. Sponsors who attended were presented with a Bowen MOW bag, calendar and appreciation certificate. Photo supplied

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