We were delighted to welcome distinguished guests to celebrate our 70th anniversary and launch our commemorative book. It was a beautiful day to give thanks to all who have shaped Goodwin into the organisation it is today.
Guests were invited to journey through our rich history with pop-up displays and a commemorative book titled ‘Celebrating 70 Years of Goodwin’ detailing the remarkable efforts of many who helped birth the origins of Goodwin.
Liesel Wett, Goodwin’s Board Chair, said ‘Goodwin’s story is one of grassroots community, and how the actions of a few can snowball into something so impactful. It wasn’t driven by politics, religion, or profit. It was driven by a group of women who wanted to better their community.’
One of these women, Margaret Findlater-Smith, generously gave her time to be Goodwin’s volunteer historian, helping to provide research material and guidance on our history.
Margaret, a member of the National Council of Women of Australia (YCWA) and the Soroptimists Club, read the following excerpt from our book to guests in attendance.
‘From humble beginnings to one of Australia’s most highly regarded providers of aged care services Goodwin’s foundations are deeply rooted in community. In a planned city that had not planned for seniors, a desperate need for suitable housing would see a small group of citizens take it upon themselves to see it built. In doing so, they brought together an entire city, rallying people from all walks of life to raise funds and support. Their efforts in creating an independent, community-driven, not-for-profit organisation have succeeded in assisting seniors to this day.’
Stephen Holmes, CEO, said ‘This year we wanted to take a moment to celebrate how the organisation came to exist, and in doing so, say thank you to all the people and organisations that helped to create these services for seniors in the ACT and NSW.’
‘Many of us hope for retirement at 70, but Goodwin is showing no signs of slowing down. There is always something on the horizon, with the organisation looking out for new ways on how it can meet the needs of our community.’
Goodwin thanks every resident, client, staff and family member, organisation and individual who has helped shape the Goodwin of today. We look forward to our next 70 years, and hope you join us on the journey.