Fairhaven celebrates 25 years of giving hope
Fairhaven celebrates 25 years of giving hope
12 October 2016
Former and current managers and assistant managers of Fairhaven were part of the 25th anniversary celebrations on Mt Tamborine. From left: Majors June and Russell Grice, Majors Dean and Vicki Clarke, Major David Rogerson, Major Heather Drew and Major Mert Darby. Photos Rowan Johnstone
The Salvation Army’s Gold Coast Recovery Services (Fairhaven) celebrated its 25th anniversary on Saturday 8 October.
Former and current Fairhaven managers, assistant managers, staff and clients attended the day, which began with a tour of the tranquil Mt Tamborine property, followed by a special service and lunch.
Major Mert Darby (ret.), who did the research and groundwork to establish Fairhaven, gave the opening address, speaking about the vision for the ministry 25 years ago, and how the service began at Parklands on the Gold Coast. "The growing need was the vision, as the Gold Coast was fast becoming the drug capital of Queensland," he said.
Majors Russell and June Grice, Fairhaven managers during the transition of the service from Parklands to Mt Tamborine in 2011, were also part of the anniversary celebration. Major Russell spoke, sharing their journey of keeping the service going through temporary accommodation, acquiring the beautiful Mt Tamborine property, and transitioning the service into its new location.
A special service and fellowship lunch were the highlights of the anniversary celebrations.
Current Fairhaven manager, Major David Rogerson, completed the Fairhaven journey, explaining that the ministry of serving those in addiction is continuing, with growth and development in program and service delivery, but with the same goals of bringing hope, healing and wholeness to all clients, their families and significant others.
“We have a sign halfway down our driveway which says ‘Hope Starts Here’,” he said. “The Salvation Army was and is a giver of hope and we have a history of providing hope for people in great need. This is the testimony of many hundreds who have come through our gates over the years.”
Two former clients also shared their powerful testimonies, providing living evidence on the impact of the service in transforming desperate and broken lives.
The Gold Coast Temple Band provided music support for the event.
Comments
Thank god for fairhaven .some years ago helped save my sons life
Now he is going to return to fairhaven again to start his journey again to recovery