Gwelup Octogenarian Collects Containers for a Cause

Baptistcare resident Des Gilbert (87) is among the thousands of West Aussies who have started to collect and deposit their recyclables for the Containers for Change initiative.

But the Gwelup octogenarian, who has managed to collect more than 1100 containers in just six months, has more than the good of the planet in mind.

He wants to raise a massive $15,000 for a state-of-the-art Tovertafel (TOVA-TAFF-AL), for the seniors who share his home at Baptistcare David Buttfield Centre (DBC) Residential Care.

The Tovertafel or ‘magic table’, is a high-quality ceiling projector which beams light animations onto a table below and was developed in the Netherlands for people with cognitive challenges.

“Not only are we doing our part for the environment by preventing these containers from ending up in landfill, but we are also raising money for a significant cause,” said Des.

“Giving back to the DBC Therapy Department is important to me since they do so much for the residents here that are journeying with dementia.”

Des is managing every aspect of the Containers for Change project, including setting up a station to store the recyclables and accompanying DBC team members to deposit them at the local refund point.

Baptistcare DBC Therapy and Leisure Partner Clare West said employees, residents and their families are in awe of Des’ commitment and passion.

“When Des told us that he wanted to help raise money for a Tovertafel we were moved by his generosity,” she said.

“We have seen the amazing response residents at other Baptistcare facilities have had to the Tovertafel and are excited at the prospect of having our very own.”

Clare said the fundraising bug is catching on at DBC with other residents and employees now contributing ideas to help the residential aged care facility reach its $15k Tovertafel goal. If you would like to make a donation, visit baptistcare.com.au/donations

Find out more about Baptistcare.