Couple recognised for three decades of care

GEELONG foster parents Leonie and Doug have been recognised with the state’s most prestigious carers’ award.

Over three decades the couple has welcomed 21 foster children — the youngest just six days old — into their home, offering each a stable, safe and supportive environment to help them reach their potential.

The pair, who have been married 38 years, are also carers for their disabled adult son.

At its busiest, the family of three was joined at the house by five foster children under nine years old.

“I am one of seven so I love a full house … I was far more organised then than I am now,” Leonie said.

“I channel my late father a lot … he had sayings like ‘it’s a minor matter’ and ‘it’s of little consequence’. I often think of that.

“We’ve learnt that we can cope with a lot more than we thought we could.”

Leonie and Doug’s first foster child is now 43 and they still consider her a daughter.

The pair have opened their home to children in need for as little as one night of emergency accommodation, and as long as nine years.

“The first few days can be really daunting for the child but for the carer too because you’re getting an unknown package,” Leonie said.

“We had one boy arrive in the clothes he was wearing straight from school.

“We always have a welcome pack ready on their bed when they arrive … it’s not a big fancy pack but it will have a soft toy, colouring book or reading book, a toothbrush, hairbrush.

“Just basic stuff but stuff that’s their own which is important.”

Doug, 65, said each child had taught them something different that had ultimately prepared them to do better for the next. “You’re always looking for ways of getting a bit of an edge strategy wise and making things work out a bit smoother,” he said.

Barwon Child, Youth and Family CEO Sandy Morrison said she was thrilled to see Leonie and Doug recognised at young people in their care is immeasurable, as is their dedication and commitment to ensuring the best outcomes for both the children in their care and their extended families,” Ms Morrison said.

With the region grappling with a carer shortage, the couple encouraged more people to consider fostering.

“People get held back because they think they’re making a long-term commitment and maybe they don’t realise there are respite options,” Leonie said.

“If anybody wants to get into it they should make enquires because it’s so rewarding.”

Doug added: “Seeing a smile on a child’s face makes it all worth while.”