Speeches
Monday, 03 November 2025
Cottage Homes launch of Mitcham Upgrades
Rod and I are delighted to join you for the launch of upgrades to Mitcham Cottage Homes, and to celebrate the exceptional service of two outstanding volunteers, Jock Berry and Graham Hardy.
As your joint patrons, Rod and I are pleased to support the Cottage Homes community.
In 2022, we hosted a reception at Government House to celebrate your 150th anniversary, recognising you as one of South Australia's oldest registered charities.
I also had the honour that year of joining residents at Ascot Park Cottage Homes to cut the anniversary cake, and to witness first-hand the warmth and community spirit that defines your organisation.
The seven housing communities run by Cottage Homes offer residents not only shelter, but independence and community.
With rising living costs and acute housing shortages, Rod and I are deeply encouraged by your commitment to supporting older South Australians, who are particularly vulnerable in the current housing crisis.
Knowing that the demand for your services has never been greater, we are proud to see your response demonstrating the resilience and dedication which have defined your organisation from its beginnings.
As patron between us of close to 200 South Australian not-for-profit organisations, Rod and I are privileged to witness the vital work of volunteers in our community.
The generous donation of time, energy and expertise by volunteers is the lifeblood of organisations like Cottage Homes.
We are particularly heartened by the vision of volunteer board members who set your strategic direction and navigate considerable challenges around funding, succession planning and evolving community needs.
Today we recognise two exceptional volunteers whose service exemplifies this unwavering pursuit of social good.
Jock Berry's remarkable 30-year connection with Cottage Homes, including 15 years as President, has left an indelible mark on the organisation.
Rod and I thank Jock for overseeing significant growth, including the development of the Ascot Park units, and for guiding the important transition from a management committee to a board of governance.
Graham Hardy's 40-plus years as Honorary Architect have been transformational for Cottage Homes.
We thank Graham for his dedication to ensuring residents live in safe, comfortable homes which meet the needs of residents and regulators, from the conversion of Mitcham units from bed-sitters to one-bedroom units, to designing the Ascot Park facility.
The plaques being installed at the Mitcham and Findon gazebos will serve as lasting tributes to these two exemplary South Australians.
We also congratulate Cottage Homes on the completion of the upgrades here at Mitcham.
The new safety features, improved accessibility, renovated meeting hall and beautiful gazebo provide residents with secure, dignified and enjoyable living environments.
We thank your board members, staff and volunteers for your outstanding work in delivering this project and in sustaining this vital service to our community.
We also note and commend your plans for growth, including the proposed 14 units at Yankalilla to be constructed in 2026, which will extend your reach to regional South Australia.
As you continue this important work, may Cottage Homes build on its proud history to meet the housing needs of older South Australians for many years to come.