Media Centre

A 'Wilde' time for aged care residents in Footscray

Publish Date: 29/04/2008
Author: Marketing and Communications Dept.

One of Australia’s great talents and characters, Wilbur Wilde, performed at Baptcare’s Westhaven Community last Thursday after a special request from a resident, Brian Nash. 

Wilde entertained residents on the saxophone with tunes from Johnny Cash, Peter Allen, and the classic “Peter Gunn”, while residents sang and clapped along. 

For Brian, meeting his idol in person was a dream come true.

“Wilbur Wilde is the greatest!” Mr Nash said. Nash, also a saxophone player, had a fruitful career in the music industry. Spanning decades, Mr Nash’s career took him all over Australia and England, including performances with the late Johnny O’Keefe, Australia’s first King of Rock’n’Roll, and in dance and reception bands, as well as big bands playing Glenn Miller’s music and much more.

Aside from Wilde’s saxophone playing, he also entertained the audience with story-telling about his family life, and reflections on his days at Hey Hey It’s Saturday - Wilde’s first claim to fame.

Despite being a renowned Australian entertainer, a portrait of whom was entered in the 2006 Archibald Prize and who has recently returned to radio broadcasting, there was no limelight, glitz or glamour for Wilde at this event, rather, it was a humbling experience.

“It doesn’t matter where I perform; it is the appreciation that counts and that should never be taken for granted,” he said. 

Baptcare’s Chief Executive, Mr Jeff Davey, was appreciative of Mr Wilde visiting the facility. “For aged care residents, performances such as this are a one off occasion as many are restricted in their day to day activities. Music acts as a therapy for the elderly - it’s relaxing and provides an outlet for our residents,” he said.