Brookland Village History 2009 - Twenty Five Years of Brookland Village | Page 12

He reverted to office work and to keep fit he ran each day to work and back, and in 1977 at the age of 54 accepted a challenge from his son to ride his bike from Redlands to Sydney. This was no mean feat especially as it was an ordinary every day bike. Alec gave much of his time to charity work, some of which were School Committees, Chamber of Commerce, Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, Heart Foundation, Cancer Fund, to mention just a few, but in 1975 he was forced to retire after a heart attack and a stroke. Lilian nursed him back to health and eventually he started to paint again. In January 1986 Alec and Lilian moved to Brookland Village reluctantly at first but fortunately for us within a few days found what was available and changed their mind. Alec is a tireless worker and when he saw a barren strip of land which started at Romulus Street and continued to Troughton Road, he decided to do something about it. Over a period of ten years of hard work removing Lantana, clearing junk piles, he converted this eyesore into a lush tropical rainforest. He did receive some help from the residents, Sunnybank Special School and people on community service. At 83 he was nominated as a finalist in the 1997 Arbour Day Awards. In Brookland’s early life the Social Club was the hub of activity and Alec being the perfectionist that he was, was asked to do most of the layouts and props required for our entertainment. Nothing was too much trouble for him and it had to be perfect. He could build and paint anything required. Unfortunately most of his efforts have been destroyed where people who did not understand the historical importance of what this meant to the residents removed them, and a part of history was lost forever. One of Alec’s loves is singing. He has a beautiful voice and did not hesitate to make himself available when asked. He also expressed himself when something went wrong. Being a perfectionist he wanted the Choir to really perform well and was always ready to support anything he was asked to do. In 2003 he was admitted into the Exclusive Ninety Plus Club. This is a club in the village which was formed to recognise the achievement of reaching the wonderful age of ninety and ensuring that they are given the respect they are entitled to. Lilian, the love of his life, died in April 2006. This was a great loss but he adopted a positive attitude and with the saying, “he is on top of the world.” This wording has inspired many residents to think positively and use them. His terrific positive attitude has helped many people over the past 23 years. You name it; Alec has done it, and done it well - from acting in the village concerts, singing in the choir, dancing to being a fine artist. If you wanted something done or some advice the person to contact was Alec Smith and most of all he is known, loved and trusted by all the village residents as a thorough English gentleman. Many you spend many more years with us. Mr Alec Smith. This is your life given with love and affection from all your friends at Brookland Village.

A Brookland Christmas Images supplied by Alec Smith