Solving the problems of the world

It’s fair to say that the residents at Merriwa are an active and industrious group.

Take resident Dutchy (Ron Van Heek), for example. Two years ago, he and his neighbour and mate Owen Jeffries - along with their two ‘bosses’ as they refer to their wives, Joy and Anna, decided that the area near house number 227 on the estate was in a pretty bad state and could do with an overhaul.

So, after seeking permission from management, the pair set about paving the area and making some tables and chairs from material that had been begged, borrowed and donated.

A few native plants were added, in addition to a barbecue which was procured from the verge collection, and hey presto, the area is now a really lovely, relaxing space that is used five times or more a week for barbecues and socialising.

“It’s used most nights, especially in summer, and we are continuing to make improvements all the time,” said Dutchy.

“We’ve had up to 20 people gathered for a barbecue at any one time and it’s also popular for morning coffees. It’s a great place for all of us to solve the problems of the world,” he jokes.