City of Rockingham thanks longtime residents with annual Pioneers Luncheon

More than 200 ‘pioneers’ of the Rockingham region were celebrated at an annual event this month. The annual Pioneers Luncheon recognises people who have lived in the City of Rockingham for 50 consecutive years or more and are 65 or older. The October 13 event, which catered to about 210 pioneers, had the theme of “In the navy” to recognise Rockingham’s ties to the HMAS Stirling naval base. Local resident Bill Prince, who had a 50-year career in the navy, was guest speaker. Other guests included mayor Deb Hamblin, Brand MHR Madeleine King, Warnbro MLA Paul Papalia, Rockingham MLA Magenta Marshall and HMAS Stirling Commander Nick Carter and Lieutenant Commander Keith Bromfield. Ms Hamblin said the luncheon enabled the city to acknowledge residents who had played a part in its history. “Over the years, Rockingham has grown from a small holiday town by the seaside to a thriving strategic centre and is now one of the fastest growing cities in the metropolitan area,” she said. “Our pioneers have been crucial to the city’s growth and progress and we thank them for their outstanding efforts.”