Ross Walker Lodge
Ross Walker Lodge is now a building surrounded by gardens . In its beginning the concept of the lodge grew in the minds of people in the caring community of St Margaret ’ s Uniting Church in Hackett . Its concept crystallized when funds were on offer for building dwellings for disabled people in the ACT who were eligible for community housing .
As I reflect on this I marvel at the faith , the trust , the patience and goodwill of the church people involved and not just those of St Margaret ’ s .
Before residents moved in there was much discussion among families about what was feasible and desirable for residents to be able live in the lodge . There is freedom for individuals to live their own lives in a cooperative way among the community with in the lodge ; a place that has a basic structure and supportive environment . How this happens continues to develop within broad guidelines .
Residents have come to show care and affection for each other . I have seen this from instances such as warm welcomes as a resident returns from travels and calling for help when another resident needs it .
The co-operation of neighbours is a remarkable part of life around the lodge . Three neighbouring churches cooperating in the use of land by the lodge astounded one of the building sub-contractors . It was something he reckoned that should be broadcast on TV .
Newton Street neighbours were no doubt accustomed to enjoying the open space where the lodge now stands . Now they have grown to appreciate their new neighbours and using the foot path under the sheoak trees that shadow the north east side of the lodge . Trees that set a limit on where to lodge could be built and seek to expand their presence as their seedlings shoot up in the garden beds around the lodge .
The garden beds provide joy and constant challenge as flowers , shrubs , vegetables and fruit trees all grow and require attention .
There will be no doubt continuing challenges as life in and around the lodge evolves and the Management Committee , the Resident ’ s Group and UnitingCare take up the challenges .
Extracts from an article in Reflecting on 50 Years - 1964-2014 , the literary celebration of St Margaret ’ s 50 th Anniversary
- written by Peter Biggs
St Margaret ’ s News 6 March 2023