Awards 2021

Leila Chin

Mrs Chin has voluntarily been preparing lunch for the Chung Wah Society Seniors Group every fortnight since 1992. She was aged 58 when she commenced this undertaking and earlier this year Leila turned 87 and is still there doing her bit for the Society and its members

Every fortnight, Leila goes shopping for the ingredients with the assistance of her daughter and with the help of a few other Chung Wah Seniors, they prepare lunch for around 60 people.

Mrs Chin is well aware of the importance of what she and her team do. The social connections for example are very important, especially as examples to the younger members of their community.

Younger family members for instance, go early and pick up those Senior members of the Society that are unable to drive any more, bring them to the luncheon and take them home again after their day out. Other Seniors start arriving around 9am and socialise with singing, games, especially Mah Jong and lots of chatting. Occasionally, there are presentations made to members of the group by Council On The Ageing (COTA) and other organisations that have interests in Seniors groups. The outings are usually over by 3pm. Throughout the year, there are a number of Services and Festivals conducted at the Chinese Temple. Many of these are conducted throughout the night

into the early mornings, depending on the auspicious time of said service. For these, Leila is there, busy helping to prepare and cook food for the many participants.

Her extensive knowledge of ancient Chinese customs and cultures gives guidance to families on traditional ceremonies such as 'baby's 'one month celebrations', weddings and funerals.

Mrs Yu Lan, Leila, Chin is well respected in her community for her dedication and commitment to the Chung Wah Society Seniors Group and for her extensive knowledge of Chinese Customs and Culture.

It is so wonderful to have a member of an old and important section of our community with us today and I ask that you acknowledge Mrs Yu Lan, Leila Chin's recognition as a 2021 Senior Of Excellence NT.