October 2, 2008
A Gippsland Rotary project to double Centenary House has been highlighted in Federal Parliament.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has paid tribute in Parliament to the volunteers who rallied together to establish Gippsland Rotary Centenary House.
He pledged his full support to help the committee double the size of the home.
“I will be working with all levels of government and the community to secure funding for the next stage,” Mr Chester told Parliament.
“All levels of Government from both sides of politics supported the original development and now it is time to start building those partnerships again for the next stage of the project.”
Mr Chester described Rotary Centenary House to his Parliamentary colleagues but said the residence was far more than bricks and mortar.
“Merely describing the bricks and mortar which make up the skeleton of Centenary House fails to do justice to the heart which beats within,” Mr Chester said.
“This is a house that love, compassion and empathy have built in Gippsland.
“In addition to funding from state and federal government and many philanthropic trusts, the community of Gippsland, led by its Rotarians, was successful in fundraising more than $600,000 for stage 1.
“I say ‘stage 1’ because you cannot stop the enthusiasm of volunteers such as Ken Peake and the manager, Carol Crewe.”
Mr Chester said Centenary house was providing affordable and comfortable accommodation for Gippslanders when at their most vulnerable.
“I have no doubt that the friendly and supportive environment which is provided in a safe and secure location is contributing to improved health outcomes for the guests.”