Plans to buy a wheelchair bus for Eskleigh are close to fruition after its open day on Saturday.
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About 400 people explored Eskleigh during the first couple of hours of the open day, with entry donations going towards the new bus.
The event was also a celebration for the 70th anniversary of the disability support provider.
Eskleigh chief executive officer Dale Luttrell said a lot of positive feedback had been received about the historic mansion and the day, despite the overcast day.
He hoped about $2000 would be raised for the bus, which has a funding target of $75,000.
St Joe’s Big Band had been a hit with the crowd as had the snakes at the reptile rescue enclosure, he said.
The residents had a fantastic time, exploring the different activities set up and getting their faces painted, Mr Luttrell said.
Tasmanian Governor Her Excellency the Honourable Professor Kate Warner enjoyed afternoon tea with residents and invited guests.
Distinguished local historian Julian Burgess received stories and photos from former staff and people acquainted with Eskleigh to include in the history book he was writing about the organisation.
Some of the photos were dated before the building was used by Eskleigh, Mr Luttrell said.
One of the former cooks had even baked scones for the open day, he said.
While the open day had been a fantastic way for people to explore Eskleigh, Mr Luttrell said the mansion was open to the public each day to showcase the Launceston Art Society’s rolling exhibitions.