2000

In April 2000, Resthaven received an invitation from the Aboriginal Elders and Community Care Services Board and the Department of Health and Aged Care to consider a short-term role managing the Aboriginal Elders Village at Davoren Park. The role also included undertaking a formal review of service provision at the village.

Resthaven carefully considered the balance between its aged care expertise and its limited cultural experience in providing care for Aboriginal Elders, and accepted the invitation for an initial period of four months. The opportunity was expected to be a significant experience for several senior staff members and aligned with Resthaven’s mission and its desire to extend services into the northern suburbs. The commitment was consistent with Resthaven’s role as an agency of the Uniting Church and as a public benevolent institution.

The contract commenced on 1 June 2000, with the Resthaven Coordinator of North-East Community Programs seconded to manage the facility. An Aboriginal Liaison Officer was appointed, and staff received additional cultural awareness training. Despite having no prior experience working with Indigenous communities, Resthaven was able to effectively manage the site.

From the outset, management of the village proved challenging, with ongoing issues relating to service delivery, family relationships and industrial relations. Local board and constitutional matters at Davoren Park added further complexity, requiring staff to exercise considerable care and judgement in managing what was described as a highly complex situation.

Following an extension beyond the initial four-month period, the contract concluded on 13 March 2001 and management of the village transferred to the Italian Benevolent Foundation. The experience contributed to a broader understanding of service provision and highlighted the extent to which Resthaven’s aged care knowledge and practice could be applied within the wider community.