Honouring history, volunteers, and a bright new chapter
For 130 years, Cottage Homes Mitcham has been part of our story, providing safe, secure and affordable housing for older South Australians since 1895. This site holds a special place in our history, and now, it begins a new chapter.
On Thursday 30 October, Cottage Homes hosted a special celebration at Mitcham to mark the completion of major renovations that enhance the site’s safety, accessibility and sense of community, including an external upgrade and a welcoming new outdoor communal area designed to encourage connection among residents for many years to come.
We were honoured to welcome our patrons, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia, and Mr Rod Bunten, who joined residents, Cottage Homes Board members, staff and volunteers, and other special guests to celebrate this important milestone.
The event also provided an opportunity to recognise two extraordinary long-term volunteers who have each made an enduring impact on Cottage Homes:
Jock Berry: Jock joined Cottage Homes in 1990, beginning by collecting rent in cash from residents before joining the Management Committee in 1993. Over the next three decades, he played an integral role in the organisation’s evolution, serving as President from 2006 to 2021. Jock’s leadership oversaw significant moments in our history, including the development of ten new units at Ascot Park and our transition from a Management Committee to a formal Board of governance.
Graham Hardy: Graham recently retired as the Cottage Homes Honorary Architect after an extraordinary 42 years of volunteer service. His design expertise and deep commitment have shaped every site across Cottage Homes, ensuring that our cottages remain safe, well-maintained, and welcoming. Graham’s legacy lives on in the heritage cottages he helped preserve, the thoughtful environments he helped design, and in the lives of countless residents who have benefitted from his dedication.
Both Jock and Graham were honoured with commemorative plaques unveiled by Governor Adamson. Jock’s will now be proudly displayed at Mitcham, and Graham’s will soon to find its permanent home at Cottage Homes Findon.
Following the speeches and formalities, guests enjoyed an afternoon tea and the opportunity to reflect on Mitcham’s remarkable 130-year legacy and the many ways Cottage Homes continues to evolve while staying true to its founding purpose: providing homes and community for older South Australians.
