Founded in 1954, Goodwin Aged Care Services – the largest aged care and retirement living provider in the ACT – is celebrating 70 years of dedicated care for seniors in the region this year.
In recognition of the momentous milestone, Goodwin delved into The National Archives and National Library to document the evolution of the organisation with a book titled ‘Celebrating 70 years of Goodwin’.
Goodwin celebrated the anniversary and release of the book by hosting a launch event at Goodwin Village Farrer. Guests were invited to journey through Goodwin’s rich history with pop-up displays detailing and a showcase of the book showcasing the remarkable efforts of many who helped birth the origins of Goodwin.
Goodwin’s Board Chair, Liesel Wett 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”.
The following weeks saw residents from all seven locations celebrate the milestone with localised parties and events.
Goodwin Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Holmes said it was inspiring to see the role that Goodwin has in the community.
“Goodwin’s services have touched the lives of so many people over these past 70 years,
not just our staff, residents, and clients, but the countless families, friends, and volunteers who have held hands and shared in these special times in people’s lives. This anniversary is a credit to our community,” he said.
Margaret Findlater Smith, a volunteer from The National Council of Women and Soroptimists’ Club facilitated the curation of archival material for the book.
“I am sure that those people who formed the Goodwin Fundraising Committee in 1954 with the aim of building 20 small cottages for pensioners could never have imagined what Goodwin is today,” she said.
From humble beginnings to today, Goodwin operates five retirement living villages, four residential aged care facilities, three-day clubs and three wellness centres, as well as an extensive home care service in the ACT and NSW South Coast regions.
