The new Centacare-Enoggera Respite Centre (C-ERC) seen from the driveway. The C-ERC is located at 320 South Pine Road, Enoggera.

A Blessing Service was held for Centacare-Enoggera Respite Centre (C-ERC) on Sunday 5th July.

The new facility, which opened to the public on 12th March, was erected on the former site of the St. John the Baptist Presbytery, the use of the land being offered for use by the late Fr. Gary Russell, on behalf of the Archdiocese of Brisbane.

His Grace Archbishop Bathersby, conducted the service with the assistance of the Very Rev. Fr Peter Meneely and Parish Administrator, Rev. Dr. Chris Hanlon.

Included in the guest list were the Hon. Kate Jones MP, who is on the C-ERC Advisory Committee, Peter Selwood – Executive Director of Centacare, Bev Watkinson – Director, Centacare Community Support Services, numerous staff members of allied centres, staff and volunteers of the Centre.

During the Service acknowledgement was made of the traditional owners of the land, the Turrbal people, who occupied the northern side of the Brisbane River.

Initial respite services had previously been conducted from 1987 in Hurdcotte Street, Enoggera in a Queensland-style cottage located in the school grounds of Our Lady of the Assumption Primary School. 

The late Fr. Cyril Shand offered use of the cottage which was refurbished and fitted out and began welcoming clients by November of that year.   It was originally known as the Neighbourhood Shepherd Centre.  

Previous Managers Jay Chadwick and Maureen Hilton were recognized for their contribution to the on-going development and success of the Centre, Wendy Kelly represented the staff and 101 year old Elsa McArthur represented the Clients in the prayer service.

Ann Donaghy, Service Manager of C-ERC, spoke with great hope for the future of the service.

“We know the future holds many challenges, and history tells us that we will endeavour to meet all the demands placed upon the Centre, however we will emerge as strong as ever and committed to the long tradition of caring for our clients and friends of Enoggera,” she said.

Released by The Catholic Communications Office 

Story supplied by Centacare-Enoggerra Respite Centre