150 Years of Stories
Many people and events have made up Abound Communities's 150 years. We would like you to meet some of the people and find out about the events that helped shape the organisation.
There’s nothing like a good cup of tea and vanilla slice to bring a community together. The kiosk at Rushall Park has been doing a sterling job for almost fifty years.
Read MoreLouis Lawrence was a colourful personality which perhaps was why he was chosen by George Coppin to be one of 12 trustees for the Australian Dramatic and Musical Association.
Read MoreThe tradition of the footlights at the Old Colonists lived on with the arrival of soprano Helen Gordon Cunard in 1925.
Read MoreCaroline Gladstone was ‘admitted’ into the Old Actors Homes in 1907 after the Australasian Dramatic and Musical Association (ADMA) had merged with the Old Colonists’ Association of Victoria.
Read MoreJudge Robert Pohlman was a sober and somewhat reticent man who played a pivotal role in early Victoria. He was one of 20 prominent Melbourne leaders who formed the Association in 1869 and who then became its first President in 1870.
Read MoreWhen George Coppin established the Abound Communities, it was not merely about a social club for wealthy colonists. He was determined to help the pioneering colonists who were unable to provide for their old age.
Read MoreOn a rainy afternoon on 1 July 1870, Judge Pohlman, George Coppin and J B Were travelled from Queen Street to North Fitzroy to lay the foundation stones of the first two cottages in what was then known as the Old Colonists’ Almshouses.
Read MoreLoyal doctor who went beyond the call of duty
April 30, 2019
Dr Ewen Downie succeeded his father, Taylor, as Rushall Park’s honorary medical officer. He introduced new initiatives to improve the welfare of the residents, including the system of daily visits, which still exist.
Read MoreClara Murton was a pioneer of education with a fascinating background before she resided in the Old Colonist Homes in Rushall Park. A generous benefactor, Clara built and donated two cottages to the Association. She moved into her cottage in 1909.
Read MoreBerwick dignatory Cyril Molyneux becomes life governor
April 29, 2019
Cyril Molyneux lived by the motto ‘endeavour with integrity.’ He was a well-respected citizen of Berwick and was involved in many community and arts projects. He became Life Governor in 1981.
Read MoreDorothy Clayton has felt very much ‘at home’ since she moved into Braeside Park nine years ago. Now, Dorothy, the village’s volunteer pastoral care worker, tries to ensure that others also feel a sense of belonging in the Berwick village.
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