On 11 May, Lady Isabel Kidman, wife of the prominent pastoralist, Sir Sidney Kidman, officially opened Resthaven, with heads of other churches joining with Methodists in the launch.
Rev. W.A. Potts and his wife were given the task of overseeing the operation’s affairs under the watchful eye of Rev. John Pearce. Residents testified to the high-quality of work being done, influencing others to apply for accommodation:
‘I have never found kindness and consideration as I have found here at “Resthaven”. Rev. and Mrs Potts are perfect hosts. Anyone who is in need of a real Christian home will find it here. We are fortunate in having such a capable matron as Mrs Potts.’
By this point, there was a realisation that the need for Resthaven was far greater than anticipated. The President of Conference, Rev. A.B. Lloyd, noted ‘its probable expansion in the future’. Soon, both Rev. Pearce and Rev. Lloyd were found to be correct in their belief that Resthaven was a fast-growing enterprise.
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