Celebrating a rich history of giving

The generosity of our supporters was recognised at a special luncheon marking our 140^th anniversary of caring for Australians.

The Friends of Lady Janet Clarke luncheon is held each year in Melbourne to thank our supporters for their donations that make a direct and positive impact to their lives of residents and clients.

This year’s event was extra special as we remembered all those whose generosity, kindness and determination have helped shape Bolton Clarke since 1885.

One hundred and thirty supporters attended the event at Parliament House, which stands only steps away from the stately Spring Street home where our organisation had its beginnings.

Guest speakers included former nurses Sue Carroll and Susan Cott who shared memories of our services over time and the positive impact of supporters.

Susan recalled there were only 200 registered nurses when she joined the organisation in 1974, and Sue reflected on how communication has changed over the years.

“I never had a computer, but I remember when the two-way radios were introduced for use on the road – it was wonderful because there was no more searching for a phone box to call back to the office!” she said.

Head of Fundraising Alex Cross said the event recognised the critical role of supporters in helping people access life-changing care and services.

“Ever since those earliest days, community support has been at the heart of what we do,” he said.

“That support has had a huge impact, from funding our nurses in the 1880s, through to supporting our Good Samaritan Fund, Homeless Persons Program and research projects like Connect Local today.

“We are deeply grateful to our supporters, many of whom have made a long-term commitment to assist with the development and delivery of our programs, services and research.”

Other highlights of the event included:

• Chief Operating Officer Home and Community Support Deidre McGill sharing insights about the impact of community support in meeting changing needs
• Senior Clinical Nurse Adviser Kylie Elder, Senior Research Fellow Rajna Ogrin, Sue and Susan leading a panel discussion about nursing over the years
• Emily Cormack from Equity Trustees speaking on the importance of philanthropy and why Equity Trustees is a proud supporter of Bolton Clarke
• Registered Nurse Liaison Team Leader John Fitzpatrick updating on the important work of the nurse liaison teams in 21 hospitals across Melbourne
• A display of historic uniforms from 1885 to the 1980s. 

Read more about our 140-year history in our very own book, An Australian Story.

Inline image: Former nurses Sue and Susan shared memories of our services over time.