It’s impossible to tell the story of StGiles without delving into the stories of its clientele, as demonstrated by the conversation at the institution’s 80th year reunion on Friday.
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The voices of volunteers and past patients made the milestone one to remember, as guests were taken on a trip down memory lane.
Change has been a constant for the organisation, with some of the biggest developments coming in the past 10 years.
John Dent was chairman during the 75th anniversary celebration in 2013, and remains on the StGiles board.
He said it had emerged to stand on its own within the community.
“I can’t think of too many other organisations that have lasted this long in Launceston,” he said.
“It’s a terrific achievement.”
StGiles was initially formed as a way to assist the hospital during the polio epidemic.
Infected children would go to StGiles not only for their rehabilitation, but also to learn, with education provided to those forced to stay at the institution.
While StGiles has adapted its list of services to suit the times, Mr Dent said the foundation of the organisation remained the same.
“Essentially, we are still helping children and adults within the Launceston community to overcome their problems and disabilities,” he said.
“StGiles has expanded to be completely different to what it was, but the same ethos is still there.
“We look after everyone we can.”
StGiles Society is located at 65 Amy Street.
Sean Slatter
Journalist at Fairfax Media based at Launceston.
Journalist at Fairfax Media based at Launceston.
