Presentation to the 'Chairman' - Les Brener

In a show of respect and thoughtfulness, a group of “friends of Les” gathered at the Montefiore care centre in Sydney on Tuesday 17^th August to make a surprise presentation to Les Brener A.M., past Director of PMA Australia.

Following a month long fundraising amongst Les’s ex colleagues and friends, Terry Rimmer (industry consultant and ex PMA Australia director) made the presentation on behalf of those who so generously contributed.

The objective was to find ways of making Les’s new home at Montefiore and his need for wheelchair mobility, easier, without the need for support of others, and give Les and wife Jessica more independence and greater opportunities to plan activities together outside of the care centre.

With a number of gifts from generous donations including Nikon camera, Telstra phone and Orchestral subscriptions, the ultimate surprise for Les was the presentation of a motorised wheelchair customised for Les’s needs (including Chardonnay glass holder!).

The emotion of the moment as his chair was driven in front of him by his occupational Therapist soon turned to a smile from ear to ear as he took control of his new “toy”.

Three of the PMA Australia founding “fathers” attend Les Brener surprise presentation. John  Paxton (left) and Ken Peters (right) sharing the excitement with Les as he receives his new chair.

Terry Rimmer presents Les Brener with one of many surprise gifts from industry friends.