Oberin’s dedication a legendary effort

WINCHELSEA Playgroup facilitator Melissa Oberin is the Surf Coast Shire’s latest Local Legend, taking the tally to six this year.

Ms Oberin has been a pivotal part of the group for years, navigating and maintaining the kindergarten through the COVID-19 pandemic and difficult times.

The award recognises Melissa’s positive and tireless community-focused leadership helping children and families connect, learn, and thrive.

“Melissa is instrumental in welcoming families to playgroup, either with new babies or families who are new to the area,” her nominator said.

“She can be credited with keeping playgroup alive during COVID-19 lockdowns by sharing play content through Facebook and maintaining social connectedness.

“Melissa is the fabric of the community, and the lifeblood of the group.”

Ms Oberin had been taking her granddaughter Delilah to Winchelsea Playgroup for only a couple of months before a bulk graduation of children left the group.

Delilah was the last child left, and by the time Melissa had played a central role in helping revive the group and its activities, she found that she had “kind of inherited the place”.

Years of countless volunteer hours later, surviving a very different type of standstill during COVID-19 lockdowns, and immeasurable commitment to the group, Ms Oberin has been recognised for her work.

Ms Oberin feels honoured to be identified and celebrated as a Local Legend.

“I get lots of thanks from the parents every session, but I guess to have it recognised more widely is a real honour, and lets me know I’m doing the right thing,” she said.

“It’s working for everyone else, and they must be enjoying it.”

Delilah has since skipped off to primary school and second grand-daughter Willow has taken her place in the playgroup.

Sessions were weekly on a Thursday but switched to fortnightly while emerging from pandemic lockdowns. With numbers strong again, the group may return to a weekly format.

Winchelsea Playgroup meets at 10am every second Thursday at St Thomas Anglican Church Hall.

The group will resume again in February.