About 50 residents, friends, family and staff gathered for an afternoon rec-room celebration of the central Balclutha elderly citizens care home’s diamond anniversary.
Speeches focused on the care and connections the institute created, its origins and growth.
The house and section of Holmdene’s current location were gifted to Presbyterian Support Otago by Mr and Mrs Howard Dunn in 1965.
The community then pitched in to raise $NZ5000 to alter and furnish the home, which for many years housed eight residents, including a Mrs Maxwell, who lived to 103.
Over the years Holmdene has had two major re-developments to become a thoroughly equipped care and hospital facility for 35 residents and about 60 staff.
The generosity of volunteers was praised, and it was noted how friends and family of resident often found the care home a cheerful social hub, made more friends and got involved with larger activities.
Mary Hay, who became a resident last year, took the floor to make a quick speech.
"I came here in a wheelchair with two broken hips," she said.
"I really didn’t know what was going to happen to me next [but] the kindness and positive spirit [here] were remarkable and I still can’t believe how soon I was back on my feet.
"Thank God for this place."
Visitors to the 60th celebration commended the activities and outing they attended with the staff residents.
"Holmdene’s open-door policy means friends and whanau and anybody who might want to volunteer with activities are always welcome," manager Steph Leith said.
