Archbishop and Minister for Disability bless and open Identitywa’s new corporate base
On Thursday, 3 August, our new corporate base was blessed by the Most Rev Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB and officially opened by the Minister for Disability Services, the Hon Stephen Dawson MLC.
Representatives from Lotterywest, Sisters of Mercy, partner organisations and other WA disability agencies, joined individuals and families supported by Identitywa, Identitywa Board members, staff and guests for the official opening.
Board Chair, Graeme Mander, welcomed the gathering acknowledging the significant history of Identitywa and its role in providing services to people with disability and their families.
He then invited Professor Len Collard, a Whadjuk/ Balardong Nyungar, to give a Welcome to Country to commence the proceedings. Professor Collard spoke of the importance of the tradition of Welcome to Country for the Nyungar people.
“It is a diplomatic tool which signifies respect and engagement,” he explained.
He extended his thanks to Identitywa for the service it gave to the community and presented CEO, Marina Re with a ‘Kylie’ (Nyungar word for boomerang) as a token of welcome.
Minister for Disability Services, the Hon Stephen Dawson MLC followed Professor Collard, congratulating Identitywa on its 40th anniversary this year.
“The move to such a beautiful, custom designed location, is the beginning of a new and exciting era for Identitywa. I congratulate you for realising your dreams and potential,” said the Minister.
Archbishop Costelloe then reflected on the “blessed opportunity” Identitywa has as an outreach of the Archdiocese. “I am reminded of Pope Francis’s words: “Warmer of people’s hearts…healer of people’s wounds.”
“May Identitywa continue to provide this important service – may it continue to be a blessing to all,” he said.
Marina concluded the event by acknowledging the founders of the organisation.
“We are here today because of the vision of others who have come before us. We are humbled by the foresight and strength of the founding families who demanded a better world for their sons and daughters.
“Their aspiration is our daily inspiration and it has remained at the forefront of Identitywa and continues to drive us to raise the bar and strive for a good life for all.
“I like to think that these historic buildings retain some of the passion and spirit of the past occupants, those blessed with a sense of service to others and a lifetime dedication to bringing the best out in those to whom they ministered. It is a wonderful legacy and one which we will try hard to continue.
“As an agency of the Archdiocese of Perth we are blessed with many supporters who believe in our mission and work with us in partnership to ensure the continued success of Identitywa,” said Marina.
Identitywa, one of WA’s largest agencies supporting people with disability and their families. Registered NDIS provider.
For more information about our range of services, please call 9474 3304 or email reception@identitywa.com.au
Media contact: Michelle Ebbs
T (08) 9474 3304 | M 041 940 1335 E Michelle.Ebbs@identitywa.com.au | W www.identitywa.com.au
Prof Collard presenting Marina with the Kylie