State Member for Ipswich West Wendy Bourne MP has welcomed the official transition of Cabanda Care in Rosewood to Lutheran Services, describing the occasion as both a celebration of the future and a tribute to the remarkable community vision that created Cabanda almost 40 years ago.
Speaking at the official welcome ceremony, Ms Bourne said Cabanda had been at the heart of the Rosewood community for generations, with countless local families sharing a connection through loved ones who have lived, worked or volunteered at the facility.
“Cabanda is part of the heart and soul of Rosewood, not just an aged-care facility” Ms Bourne said.
“Ask around Rosewood and chances are you’ll find someone with a connection to Cabanda. It has cared for generations of local residents and provided comfort to families knowing their loved ones can remain close to home.”
Ms Bourne said today’s ceremony was also an opportunity to honour the remarkable local people whose vision created Cabanda.
“Before Cabanda existed, many older Rosewood residents had little choice but to leave the community they loved when they needed aged care,” she said.
“A small group of determined local people believed Rosewood deserved better. They had a vision that older residents should be able to remain close to their families, friends and familiar surroundings, and they refused to give up until that vision became a reality.”
“That vision inspired an entire community. Volunteers spent years fundraising through raffles, bingo nights, street stalls, bottle collections and countless community events. They overcame setbacks, scepticism and years of hard work because they believed Rosewood deserved its own aged care home.”
Ms Bourne said Cabanda stood today as a lasting testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared purpose.
“The people who laid the foundations of Cabanda built far more than a facility. They created a lasting legacy of compassion, community and care that continues to benefit local families to this day.”
Ms Bourne said having quality aged care available locally allows older residents to remain connected to the community they know and love while receiving the care and support they deserve.
“For so many families, Cabanda means parents, grandparents, neighbours and lifelong friends can continue living close to the people and places that matter most to them.”
She also paid tribute to the dedicated staff, volunteers and supporters whose compassion and commitment have helped shape Cabanda’s outstanding reputation over many years.
“The outstanding care provided by the staff and volunteers has made Cabanda the special place it is today, and I sincerely thank every person who has contributed to its success over the years.”
Ms Bourne said she was pleased to welcome Lutheran Services as the new custodians of Cabanda and looked forward to seeing the facility continue to thrive under its leadership.
“Lutheran Services has built a strong reputation for putting people first, and I know that commitment will ensure Cabanda continues to provide exceptional care for local residents.”
“As Lutheran Services begins this new chapter, it also becomes the custodian of an extraordinary community legacy.”
“Today’s celebration isn’t simply about welcoming a new organisation. It is about recognising the generations of committee members, volunteers, staff, residents and families whose vision, determination and generosity created Cabanda, and ensuring that legacy continues for future generations.”
“I congratulate Lutheran Services on this exciting new chapter and thank them for their commitment to carrying forward a legacy that began with the dream of a handful of local people and grew into one of Rosewood’s most treasured community institutions.”
For media enquiries, contact Ipswich.west@parliament.qld.gov.au.
