Tony’s Music Studio at Araluen
Becoming friends with Jemma Barden many years ago was one of the best things I’ve ever done. Not only did I get an amazing lifelong friend, I also scored the Barden family. And what a jackpot that was. Over the years Tony, June, Jemma, Wil and James have given me an abundance of adventures, holidays, laughs, lifts, vegan catering and some of my best memories. But more than that, they have provided me with an endless amount of love, guidance, wisdom, encouragement, belief and support. The Bardens have played a significant role in my life and I could never thank them enough for it.
As most of you will know, Tony passed away unexpectedly earlier this year.
Tony was too special to describe; the real magic was in knowing him. He was so generous with his time, energy, smile and gigantic heart. He did so much for so many people and he was more widely and deeply loved than anyone I have ever known. I always adored Tony. Any time with him made me happy, hopeful and wanting to be better; wanting to be more like him.
Araluen Centre, based in the north eastern suburbs of Melbourne, is a wonderful not for profit company that provides accommodation and day services for adults with an intellectual disability. It is a place that harnesses people’s energy and enthusiasm and provides them with the ongoing opportunity to achieve the maximum quality of life within a caring and accepting community. Araluen is a very special place to Tony’s son, James.
Araluen is building a music studio for James and his friends to enjoy and naming it “Tony’s Music Studio” as a tribute to the absolute legend Tony was. I am running my first 42km marathon on October 16th (in hopefully under 4 hours) with the aim of raising funds for this studio. It isn’t going to be easy. I am quietly terrified. But I’ll be running with the Bardens in my heart and for this very special cause.
Any donations to support “Tony’s Music Studio” will be hugely appreciated. Thank you very much. Much love pals xxxx
