It’s not every day we get to celebrate a 150th birthday, but this month that’s exactly what one Geelong organisation did. Bethany Community Support is celebrating 150 years of service to the local community.
On 1 May 1868, Bethany first opened its doors in Hamlyn Heights as the Geelong Female Refuge. Today, Bethany Community Support operates from the very same site as a leading not-for-profit community services organisation supporting women, men, children and families.
In her 150 years, Bethany has witnessed a changing landscape, experienced prosperity, hardship and survived against all odds. Our organisation has survived because we have evolved, adapting our services to meet the needs of the community.
On Tuesday 1 May 2018, Bethany staff, board members, life members, volunteers and service users celebrated the 150th birthday with a special luncheon.
Pictured cutting the birthday cake are two of Bethany’s longest serving supporters: Val Hannah and Gary Bruce. Val is a Bethany Life Governor, who has fundraised for Bethany through her local dance school every year for the past 56 years. Gary is Bethany’s longest-serving volunteer. Also pictured are current board member, Krystine Canny-Smith, and CEO, Grant Boyd.
The luncheon is one of many celebrations happening this year as part of the 150th Anniversary – stay tuned for more information!
Story: Cayley Cowlishaw Photo: Krystine, Val, Grant and Gary cutting the cake, thanks to SVDC Photography.
HuG 