Resthaven marks its 90th anniversary this year, celebrating nearly a century of dedication to aged care with a series of events, activities, and concerts across its residential aged care homes, community services, and retirement living villages.
Founded in 1935 in Brighton, Resthaven began as a charitable home for older women in need, established by the Methodist Church. The original facility, officially opened on 11 May 1935 by Lady Isabel Kidman, provided aged care for a small group of residents. However, demand for its services quickly grew, and Resthaven expanded to meet the evolving needs of South Australians.
Today, Resthaven has grown into one of South Australia’s leading aged care providers, offering a comprehensive range of services, including 12 residential aged care homes, 23 community service locations, and 31 retirement living villages.
Speaking at an anniversary event held at Resthaven’s Wayville head office, CEO Darren Birbeck reflected on the organisation’s significant growth and impact over the years.
“For 90 years, Resthaven has provided quality care and support to older people across South Australia. From our humble beginnings as a home for women in need to becoming one of the state’s most trusted aged care providers, we have always been driven by the belief that older people deserve respect, dignity, and the ability to live well.”
Darren Birbeck, CEO, Resthaven
Mr Birbeck highlighted Resthaven’s pioneering role in home care services, which have been supporting older South Australians to remain in their homes for over 30 years. Additionally, Resthaven provides respite services to assist carers and affordable rental housing for older people at risk of homelessness.
Board President Mark Porter highlighted the organisation’s enduring values:
“Like the elderly people we serve, organisations age differently. Some lose their vision or strength—Resthaven has not. We have stayed true to our purpose, values, and commitment to older Australians,” he said.
A not-for-profit organisation associated with the Uniting Church, Resthaven reinvests all revenue into its services, ensuring continuous improvement in aged care, retirement living, and community support. The organisation also actively engages with residents to co-design programs and services that meet their evolving needs.
The 90th-anniversary celebrations will be held throughout 2025, with a full list of public events available on the Resthaven website.
