* 13 October 2023 *

As the opening of The V Centre Veteran Empowerment Program approaches, it has been a great pleasure to take a number of groups and individuals through the refurbished facility: some of our most distinguished visitors have been Their Excellencies Governor General of Australia the Honourable General David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) and his wife Mrs Linda Hurley.

Mr and Mrs Hurley greeted staff and guests from our ex-service accommodation.

As a veteran himself, Mr Hurley talked about the importance of the work of our organisation in supporting those who experience difficulties in adjusting to civilian life. Chair Mike O’Meara OAM and CEO Janna Voloshin spoke of the journey to reach this point and the difficult decision to close the Ivanhoe aged care home in order to re-purpose it for this important work.

General Manager Veteran Services Chris Gray led a tour of the new facility, visiting two of the participant apartments, communal areas in one of the four houses, the gym, art room and finally the large multi-purpose room. Mrs Hurley in particular noted that the atmosphere, even though not totally finished, is fresh and welcoming.

We are grateful to our building contractors South Road Construction and SJ Higgins who have gone out of their way to ensure that the facility is safe for VIP visits during the various tours.