Cuppa and chat at Lyrebird

Stories of growing up, farming and raising families in Gippsland were shared when Member for Monash Mary Aldred recently visited Lyrebird Village in Drouin.
Ms Aldred joined residents for a cuppa and presented the facility with a new Australian flag for its flagpole.
Residents from Drouin, Jindivick, Iona and further afield reflected on changes they had seen over the years, including farming through difficult times, travelling to school and raising their families.
"A few of the women have spent their whole lives in Gippsland and they have seen a lot of changes," Ms Aldred said.
"We talked about farming through good and tough times, how many siblings they had growing up, how they rode to school and raising their own families."
Ms Aldred said it was important to take time to listen to older residents and acknowledge their contribution to the community.
"Older Australians have given so much to our community over many years, and I think it's worth taking the time to sit down, listen and say thank you for all that they have done in service to our country," she said.
Among those Ms Aldred met was Marjorie McAlpine, who was celebrating her 99th birthday, and former teacher Faye Parke, who shared memories from her years in the classroom.
Discussion also turned to the long-running push for a new West Gippsland Hospital, with residents expressing their hope the project would benefit future generations.