Doutta Galla Aged Services is excited to celebrate its 33rd birthday today.
While the name Doutta Galla itself harks back to 1837, when Robert Hoddle bestowed it upon the western bank of Moonee Ponds Creek, the seeds of our organisation were sown more recently in the 1980s.
A group of concerned citizens, recognising the growing need for quality aged care in what was then known as the Doutta Galla electorate and surrounding western suburbs, came together. With the City of Melbourne Council’s support, Doutta Galla Aged Services was officially incorporated on April 12th, 1991.
Our core mission from the outset has been firm: to ensure all individuals within our community have access to affordable, high-quality aged care services, regardless of background. This commitment to inclusivity – irrespective of socio-economic status, race, gender, ethnicity, religion, or culture – remains a cornerstone of our values today, shaping our strategic direction.
Doutta Galla faces this future with confidence, embracing innovation and technology to provide exceptional care under the stewardship of recently appointed CEO Glenn Rappensberg.
“This organisation has a rich history of providing exceptional care to all, regardless of background, and I’m committed to building upon that legacy.“ he said. “There are challenges and opportunities ahead, including the implementation of the Rights-Based Aged Care Act and the new Aged Care Quality Standards. Doutta Galla will actively engage in these changes and strive to exceed expectations.
Milestones that Define Us
The past 33 years have been a journey of growth and dedication. Here are some key moments that mark our evolution:
1991: Doutta Galla Aged Services is incorporated.
1993: Lynch’s Bridge, our flagship facility at the time, opens in Kensington with 30 beds.
1997: Woornack, our second facility, opens in Sunshine with 45 beds, followed by Yarraville Village and Queens Park in Moonee Ponds, both with 45 beds each. Queens Park also sees the launch of 16 independent living units.
1999-2001: Continued expansion with facilities like Grantham Green and extensions at Lynch’s Bridge and Woornack.
2004: Harmony Village in Shepparton joins Doutta Galla, followed by the opening of Avondale Heights, our first facility built using relocatable buildings.
2005-2008: Harmony Village witnesses significant growth with extensions to its aged care facility and retirement village.
2008: The Footscray facility opens, built on the former RSL site.
2016-2018: A major refurbishment program revitalizes all our sites. Harmony Village sees a further extension to its aged care home.
2024: Doutta Galla stands tall with eight aged care homes, two retirement villages, and home support packages across Melbourne’s western suburbs and Shepparton.
