Although it took several years to find the right site, by early 2001 Resthaven had identified a parcel of newly released land at Craigmore. Throughout the remainder of the year, planning and design work progressed on a new residential aged care home comprising 40 high-care beds, 38 low-care beds, and a 14-bed secure dementia unit.
By September 2003, construction was underway on Resthaven’s new residential aged care home at Adams Road, Craigmore.
Resthaven Craigmore, Resthaven's first greenfield residential aged care development in more than 20 years, was officially opened on 17 November 2004 by the Moderator of the Uniting Church, Rev. Dr Graham Humphris. The first residents had moved in a few months earlier, on 9 August 2004. The new home featured an internet café, chapel and library, as well as private ensuite rooms.
On 20 February 2007, the 'Art of Respect' mural, a 48-metre artwork created by Year 9 and 10 students from Craigmore High School in collaboration with Resthaven residents and staff, was officially unveiled. Transforming the secure dementia unit garden into a vibrant and engaging outdoor space, the mural featured imaginative elements such as a flying pig, frogs, lizards, snakes, flamingos, flowers and bugs. The project was partially funded through proceeds from UnitingCare’s Pancake Day, with significant support from Craigmore High School.
Resthaven Craigmore’s Wound Care Improvement Project was a finalist for an Australian Aged Care Quality Agency 'Better Practice' Award. The resident-centred initiative focused on reducing pain during complex wound care, using assessments and individualised care plans to identify strategies that improved residents’ comfort and outcomes.
As part of the National Aged and Community Services Australia Conference, held in Adelaide in September 2008, delegates to the conference undertook a tour at Resthaven Craigmore.
Resthaven Craigmore participated in the national dental health trial, Caring for Oral Health in Australian Residential Care, which aimed to develop a best-practice approach to oral health for aged care residents. The successful trial contributed to the program’s implementation across Australia, helping shape a national approach to oral hygiene in residential aged care.
On 21 November 2008, Resthaven Craigmore welcomed residents, families, staff and volunteers to its annual Open Day. Guests enjoyed live entertainment from the Playford City Band, displays, craft stalls, a sausage sizzle and Devonshire tea. Mayor of Playford Martin Lindsell officially opened the event, followed by site tours.
On 15 May 2009, Craigmore volunteer Jan Rothwell received a Northern Volunteering SA award for her outstanding contribution as a Chaplain’s Assistant and operator of the on-site mobile shop.
On 7 August 2009, Resthaven Craigmore celebrated its fifth anniversary. Original residents Mr Bill Pope, Mrs Millie Mann and Mrs Jean Herbert, who moved in during the first week of opening in 2004, marked the milestone by cutting the birthday cake.
On 30 April 2010, Resthaven Craigmore held a 75th anniversary celebration themed 'Walk Through the Ages of Resthaven'. The event featured historical photographs, entertainment by the Playford City Band, craft stalls, a sausage sizzle and Devonshire tea.
On 15 June 2011, IBM Australia corporate volunteers visited Resthaven Craigmore and Resthaven Malvern to help residents learn about Skype, Facebook, YouTube, email and text messaging. The sessions connected residents at both sites via Skype, providing residents with the opportunity to meet and chat with each other.
In early 2013, a lightning strike caused significant damage to one of the site's buildings. A lightning protection system was subsequently installed at the site.
Resthaven Craigmore Personal Carer Tilly Brand was recognised at the Playford Alive Local Hero Awards, winning the 'Best Training to Employment Outcome' and 'Minister’s Scholarship' awards.
On 17 September 2014, Resthaven Craigmore celebrated its 10th site anniversary with a ‘Show Day’ attended by residents, families, staff, volunteers and community guests. Original resident Joyce Deed shared memories of the past decade before cutting the birthday cake with Mayor Glenn Docherty. Festivities included animal displays, site tours, stalls, exhibitions and afternoon tea.
In June 2015, Resthaven Craigmore joined Resthaven’s 80th birthday celebrations. Residents, staff and visitors gathered to mark the milestone and celebrate Resthaven’s 80 years of supporting older people in South Australia.
By the end of 2015, plans were nearing completion for a significant refurbishment at Resthaven Craigmore. These were set to include improvements to dining and lounge areas, upgraded outdoor spaces and new roofing for the upstairs balconies.
On 25 January 2016, building works commenced as part of a $1.2 million refurbishment at Resthaven Craigmore. Improvements included upgraded dining and lounge areas, a new lounge overlooking the rose garden, an upgraded barbecue area, and new outdoor activity spaces. Balcony areas were also upgraded with adjustable roofing and bi-fold windows. Smart TVs were introduced, allowing residents to access the Lifestyle Program, dining menu and important notices through Resthaven’s own channel.
Resthaven Craigmore participated in the Northern Aged Care Engagement Project, introducing experienced care staff as workplace coaches for new employees. The coaches became trusted ‘go-to’ staff members, providing support to colleagues and helping strengthen the quality of care for residents.
Following the introduction of government financial incentives for residential aged care improvements, a six-place extension was developed at the home to provide additional single rooms. Construction also included a new meeting room, storage area, and refurbishment of the dining room and existing double rooms. Siteworks commenced in November 2016.
On 29 June 2017, Resthaven Craigmore opened its doors to the public to launch its refurbished areas and celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Uniting Church in Australia. The event included tours of the newly completed extension and upgraded facilities.
In late 2017, an emergency power generator was installed at Resthaven Craigmore as part of a $1.56 million investment across Resthaven’s residential aged care homes. The generator provided backup power during electricity outages, helping to support residents’ safety and comfort.
In early 2020, Resthaven residential aged care homes adapted to the restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing strict infection prevention and control measures to safeguard residents and staff. Visitor restrictions, quarantine requirements, enhanced staff training and vaccination programs were introduced in response to evolving public health directions. To reduce social isolation, homes embraced new ways for residents to connect with family and friends, including video calls and window visits, while maintaining a strong focus on residents’ health, wellbeing and quality of life.
On 28 August 2020, Resthaven Craigmore celebrated Resthaven’s 85th anniversary with a birthday party for residents, staff and volunteers. Held in the Hall with appropriate physical distancing and COVID-safe measures in place, the celebration featured a photographic display highlighting the home’s history and live piano entertainment. The event concluded with dancing and party food, with two residents also celebrating their 85th birthdays that year joining as special guests.
In mid-2024, Resthaven Craigmore completed the installation of a rooftop solar PV system as part of a Resthaven-wide sustainability project. The initiative contributed to an estimated 9% reduction in carbon emissions across the organisation and marked an important step towards a more sustainable future.
On 8 November 2024, around 60 residents, family, friends and staff gathered to celebrate Resthaven Craigmore’s 20th anniversary. City of Playford Mayor Glenn Docherty was among the special guests.
On 24 October 2025, residents, families and staff gathered in the sunshine to celebrate Resthaven’s 90th anniversary. The celebration featured live music, farm animals, garden games, face painting and a photo booth, with guests of all ages enjoying the festivities.
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