This September James Griffin updates us on the latest news for the Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice (AYAH) and a new commemorative plaque for Mrs Ellen Wharton-Kirke
Manly’s new Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice
The Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice on the former Manly Hospital site goes from strength to strength. Its construction and official opening has been a highlight of my political career and I am keen to see the facility reach its full potential.
The AYAH is Australia’s first dedicated service for young people, aged 15 to 24 with a life-limiting illness. It also offers respite care, symptom management and assistance in the transition from children to adult services. Since its opening last December, the Hospice has received more than 40 admissions from across the Sydney Metropolitan area and from as far away as Nowra, Orange, Dunedoo and Tweed Heads.
There is now a desperate need for a wheelchair accessible bus to transport patients and their carers to and from the facility. The bus could be used for many purposes including medical appointments and group excursions. There will be an initial capital cost for a vehicle and its fit out, and I would love to hear from anyone in the motor industry which might be willing to partner in this most worthwhile venture. Cash or ‘in kind’ donations from philanthropic individuals or organisations would also be most welcome.
If you can assist, please contact my office by emailing manly@parliament.nsw.gov.au
A commemorative plaque for Mrs Ellen Wharton-Kirke
Recently, it was a privilege to honour a little-known World War I hero in my office with the unveiling of a plaque, commemorating the extraordinary work of Mrs Ellen Wharton-Kirke who campaigned with amazing success to improve the care of injured soldiers. In Manly and around Australia, stirred on by Ellen, like-minded supporters began selling ribbons, badges, matchboxes, buttons and handkerchiefs to support the cause. On 30 July 1915, ironically called ‘Australia Day’ because Ellen had founded the ‘Australia Day Fund’, they raised over one million pounds or the equivalent of 125 million dollars today. Truly astounding!
In recognition of her work, Ellen was awarded a Gallipoli Gold Medalette. Only four Gold Medalettes were ever struck with the other three going to King George V, the Prince of Wales and King Albert of Belgium. Ellen was also awarded the King’s Jubilee Medal and appointed a Member of the British Empire (MBE) in 1936 for her tireless work.
On the 118th anniversary of the 1915 ‘Australia Day’ fund raising, a commemorative plaque was unveiled in my office by former Manly Mayor, Jean Hay AM on behalf of the women of Manly. The plaque was funded by the Dee Why RSL sub-Branch through the Australia Remembers – Northern Beaches & North Shore Committee.
Arrangements are being made to find the most appropriate location for the plaque’s public display in Manly. My thanks to all those involved in seeing the amazing work of Ellen Wharton-Kirke so appropriately honoured.
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