Geoff Casey’s veterans’ voice earns state award

A BARWON Health volunteer who tirelessly speaks up for fellow war veterans has won a Victorian Senior of the Year Award.
Health and Ageing Minister David Davis presented the award, in the veteran community category, to Geoff Casey at a Government House reception.
Mr Casey has been with Barwon Health since 1996 but also volunteers for Vietnam veteran groups and other organisations supporting veterans in south-western Victoria.
Barwon Health veterans liaison officer Tyne Smith nominated Mr Casey for the award, describing him as a “humble man who provides a voice for those who need it most”.
“Geoff has dedicated his life to helping others and continues to do so as our veterans volunteer in his retirement.
“He does not let his senior years slow him down and is someone who really makes every day count.”
Barwon Health said Mr Casey visited University Hospital Geelong weekly to visit other Vietnam veterans, providing them with “advice, comfort and someone to talk to”.
“For many of these patients Geoff is the only person they believe they can trust and open up to.
“In addition to this, Geoff works with young returned servicemen and women, sharing his experiences and providing advice and ideas about how to better cope with post-traumatic stress disorder.
“He also visits widows of World War 2 veterans, who can sometimes feel scared and lonely. For these widows, Geoff provides company and gives them strength to help remember the loyalty and service of their late husbands.
“Barwon Health is proud to recognise Geoff as one of our volunteers and thanks him for the significant contribution he makes to the organisation and wider community.”