A look through the archives..

As we prepare for our 10th anniversary next year, it is an opportune time to reflect on our rich historical journey to date. Therefore, we will pick two ministries per newsletter and take a look at their archives. We hope you enjoy this journey back in time. This newsletter we are focusing on Saltbush Beach Balnarring (formerly known Presentation Family Centre), Kilbreda College, Mentone and Wellsprings for Women, Dandenong.

Saltbush Beach, Balnarring

1989- Following the sale of O’Neill College in Elsternwick, The Presentation Sisters purchased land known as “Harbour View” at Balnarring Beach in 1989. This image shows one of six houses transported to the site, which became known as the Presentation Family Centre.

1990s- The site was used to provide holidays and programs to families identified through Presentation schools. In the first holiday program in 1990, over 100 families applied to participate. Being newly developed, the Presentation Sisters at Harbour View were able to welcome 50 families. Here, families and volunteers gather to watch some backyard cricket.

1992 - Sisters and Volunteers and Samuel the dog

1992- Programmes were run by Presentation Sisters and volunteers, and by 1992, 360 families had attended. Resident dog Samuel was well loved by all!

2004 - Art and crafts has always been an enjoyable and valuable element of our programs, and is continued in our programs 20 years later.

2023 - Arts and crafts almost 20 years later.

2023 - Early on, schools and local community groups supported Presentation Family Centre, including St Vincent de Paul, Hastings Community Centre, and Star of the Sea College. Many of these relationships continue today, through fundraising, donating goods, and referring guests.

Kilbreda College

Wellsprings for Women, Dandenong

Late Sister Ann Halpin (right) and Wellsprings volunteer Carmel Butler (left) at the 10th Anniversary celebration of Wellsprings for Women

Wellbeing has always been a priority at Wellsprings. Here are some participants enjoying a Twister game in 2005.

Wellsprings for Women’s volunteers, Nida Hussein (right) and the late Rose Elias (second left) at the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) celebrating their addition to the Refugee Recognition Award record.

Some of Wellsprings for Women’s celebrations circa 1997.