Whyalla Early Learning Centre farewells long-serving cook Jackie Niemann
Whyalla Early Learning Centre (WELC) has bid farewell to one of its most cherished team members, with long-serving cook Jackie Niemann officially retiring after 27 years of service.
Jackie began her journey with the centre in October 1998, and since then has prepared many, many meals for generations of Whyalla children. Whether it was her renowned pumpkin soup or the smells of cooking that filled the centre each day, Jackie’s influence extended beyond the meals she prepared.
Mayor Phill Stone paid tribute to Jackie’s service, “during the 27 years of service, I estimate that Jackie has prepared upwards of 300,000 meals, and that could be a conservative figure! Congratulations Jackie, and thanks for your service.”
Reflecting on her time at the centre, Jackie said her favourite moments often involved the children’s reactions to her meals “I loved when we had pasta or lasagna, and the children would wear it all over their faces and hands – it was funny and so cute!” Jackie said.
She also fondly remembers excursions, sausage sizzles at the beach, and seeing children she once cooked for return years later as grown-ups. “It’s a bit surreal seeing faces you recognise from back in the day – some of the children I cooked for are now adults.”
“I still get them yelling out my name in the shops, and one child even thought I lived at the centre and looked over the bench to try and find my bed,” Jackie said.
Once Jackie shared her retirement news with the WELC children, who requested “party food” for her final day, educators and families have come together to create a keepsake book filled with cards and notes of appreciation to thank Jackie for her years of love and care.
WELC Early Childhood Teacher Joanne Marsland said Jackie leaves behind a legacy, “She has been filling the bellies of hundreds of children with delicious, nutritious meals. Families, educators and visitors were always greeted by the wonderful smells from her kitchen, and she always made everyone feel welcome. We are so happy for Jackie as she begins this new adventure, but she will be very missed.”
Jackie said she was excited about the future, including crafting, making beanies for newborns and aged care residents, road trips, and volunteering with the Whyalla Hand Spinners and Weavers at Tanderra. She is also making her famous cuttlefish beanies for the Visitor Centre.
Jackie’s retirement marks the end of an era at WELC, but her warmth and recipes will long be remembered by the many children, families, and colleagues she touched throughout her career.
Happy Retirement, Jackie!