Our veterinary hospital premises was the home of a very well known local resident - Ernie Buckland until 1995. We are told that Ernie was a great animal lover and that he would have been thrilled to know that his home and the gardens he and his wife established would one day be used to help pets. Ernies daughter Lyn has written a short account of her father.
Ernie and Greta Buckland came to Mt Helena in March 1958 with their three children. They owned and operated the general store for approximately twelve years. Selling to the Maddisons they retired to concentrate on Ernies role as a shire councillor (1969 - 1982). He was Vice President from 1974 to 1976 and president of the Mundaring Senior citizens for many years starting in 1974. He was also involved in many other activites including the ratepayers association and the reformation of the Mt Helena fire brigade. Using the stores truck as fire truck until they could afford to get their own truck. Many hours were spent on weekends with the men burning off to keep the town safe and clean.
Greta was a member of the Parkerville and Mt Helena C.W.A. and the Senior Citizens. She was talented in Arts and crafts and an excellent dressmaker.
After retiring their passion for gardening took over and Ernie had the whole backyard growing fruit and vegetables. Gretas job was the front garden. Anyone visiting always left ladden with fruit and vegetables (whatever was in season).
The were also animal lovers, always had a dog or two plus cats. Ernie had turkeys, chooks and ducks as well as canaries, budgerigars and, of course, his helpful helper "George" the white carella. George was always seen in the garden on Ernies shouder. George would call Ernie when he heard the phone ring saying "phone Ern".
Greta passed away in November 1989 and Ernie passed away on June 17th 1995.