Premier Surprises Rockingham's Raymond

Premier Mark McGowan MLA visited our Rockingham Aged Care Home on June 4 to say happy birthday to popular resident and WWII Royal Navy veteran Raymond (Fred) Bartholomew.

Fred turned 97 recently, and enjoyed sharing a cup of tea and some birthday cake with "shipmate" McGowan as they spoke about their adventures out at sea.

The Premier also took a tour of the home and met some of the other residents and staff.

Hall & Prior CEO Graeme Prior said it was an honour to have the Premier visit.

“I thank the Premier for coming to meet with the residents and staff at Rockingham, particularly Mr Bartholomew who turned 97 recently,” Graeme said.

“We appreciate the Premier taking the time out of his busy schedule to come and see us.”

The Premier added that he had enjoyed sharing cup of tea with Raymond and talking about his life.

“It was terrific to visit Hall & Prior’s Rockingham Aged Care Home and congratulate Mr Bartholomew on his 97^th birthday. He has led an extraordinary life and I commend his many years of service to the Royal Navy and the Rockingham community,” Mr McGowan said.

“I’d like to thank all of the wonderful staff who do such a tremendous job looking after the residents with their commitment to the health and wellbeing of patients and their families.”