Gerry Barrett turned 90 with a surprise party at Cloona House on Friday. The event honoured his four years as a volunteer at Good Morning Colin, based at Colin Neighbourhood Partnership.

Good Morning Colin offers daily morning phone calls to registered clients. Volunteers check on clients' wellbeing and connect them to support services if needed. The service operates seven days a week.

Barrett joined after a friend mentioned the group. He handles phone duties, including solo shifts at age 88, and assists at events. He described volunteering as a key part of his routine and a benefit to his own life.

Aisling Thompson, assistant co-ordinator, noted Barrett's reliability. She said he steps in during shortages, attends events, and phones housebound clients younger than himself.