BEFORE this year Joan and Arthur Orr had never been in the paper – many unaware of what it was they did.
However with this year came a number of milestones for the couple, and the community were enlightened by their generosity and dedication to those around them.
In addition to celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary, the Cranbourne residents sponsored their 98th child this year, after first volunteering in 1972.
Much to the delight of the couple, they share their wedding anniversary with the birthday of their first foster child, the first of what were many to come.
On October 5, 1962, the couple were married at St John’s Church in Mitcham leading them to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary earlier this year.
Throughout their 50 years of marriage, the couple who have lived in Cranbourne for over 30 years, have had two of their own children while fostering many others.
They made headlines for their volunteering, taking in babies when they were as young as a day old and caring for them up until six-months of age.
Joan attributes her ability to care for these children to a love for young kids.
“I’ve always loved babies,” she said.
After caring for the children in the earliest days of their lives, the couple would then see them off into other families.
Although it could be difficult to say goodbye, the pair would take comfort from knowing the babies are going to a good family and said the adoptive parents were always grateful for what they had done.
But the couple never became involved so they could receive recognition, remaining relatively quiet about their work, taking joy from the time they get to spend with the foster babies.
During their 40 years of dedication, they have been recognised by Oz Child for 20 years of service. Joan has been made a life governor of the Royal Women’s hospital, and has also been nominated for Senior Citizen of the year.
Being named People of the Year is another title they can add to an already extensive list.
Mr Orr said he and his wife felt humbled by the recognition.
“We are very flattered to be nominated,” he said.
Mr Orr said since their achievements have been printed family and friends have also recognised their hard work.
Not much can slow this couple down, with plans to foster their next baby at the beginning of next year.
