A major milestone was reached last Friday, with the official ‘turn the turf’ ceremony at Resthaven’s Marion campus on Finniss Street in Adelaide, signalling the start of stage one of a $100 million site redevelopment.
The event marked the beginning of construction on the Resthaven Marion Community Wellness Centre, a hub designed to support older South Australians in maintaining health, independence, and wellbeing. The centre will feature dedicated spaces for group activities, exercise classes, day respite services, and 12 consulting rooms for allied health and GP services, including physiotherapy, podiatry, occupational therapy, massage, and more.
“Creating better ways to support older people to maintain their optimal health is a passion and focus for Resthaven…this centre will play a key role in helping people live well in their own homes for as long as possible.”
Resthaven CEO Darren Birbeck
Resthaven Board President Mark Porter and Resthaven Marion Community Services Manager Grant Edwards turned the ceremonial sod. They were joined by senior executives, staff, and members of the Community Consultation Group, whose consumer perspectives were integral to the planning process.
Construction is set to commence in late August, with the new centre expected to be completed by September 2026. Once finished, it will also serve as the new home for Resthaven Marion Community Services and Community Respite Services staff.
In line with Resthaven’s strong commitment to sustainability, the centre will aim for a minimum 5-Star Green Star rating and operate as a carbon-neutral building, incorporating solar power and on-site battery storage.
Founded in 1935, Resthaven is a not-for-profit aged care community service affiliated with the Uniting Church in Australia. It continues to provide essential services across metropolitan Adelaide and regional South Australia.
