New Moonyah wing to assist recovering women
Commissioner James Condon unveils the plaque for the new women’s accommodation wing of the Brisbane Recovery Services Centre (Moonyah).
Commissioner James Condon opened and dedicated the new women’s accommodation wing at the Brisbane Recovery Services Centre (Moonyah) on Saturday morning, 29 November.
“We are in partnership with the community and the government, as we serve others so that they might find freedom in Jesus,” said Commissioner Condon, the Australia Eastern Territorial Commander. “It is in his name and for his sake that we do this.”
Commissioner Condon emphasised The Salvation Army’s commitment to recovery and helping those caught in the spiral of addiction, specifically through the Bridge Program.
The new women’s wing has a peaceful outlook on to Brisbane’s Mount Coot-tha and its flowing and open design promotes calm and healing.
There are light and spacious rooms for 20 women, shared bathrooms, gardens, a laundry, indoor and outdoor lounge areas and internet access.
Only 26 beds for women were available at Moonyah prior to the opening.
Michelle Davis, former president of the Rotary Club of Brisbane Planetarium, who was the driving force behind the club’s $750,000 donation towards the women’s wing, attended and spoke at the opening.
“We saw so much need for women’s recovery accommodation in Brisbane, which we reinforced when we came to Moonyah for a breakfast,” said Michelle. “I caught the vision and was passionate and dedicated to making it a reality, but it was the women here, with their stories and their tears, that kept us focused.
“We usually raise $40,000 per year, so for a small club of only 50 members, $750,000 in three years is not bad.
“I am blessed to know that we have left a legacy that will help change the lives of vulnerable women for decades to come.”
The Zonta Clubs of Brisbane and private donors also joined with The Salvation Army and contributed substantially towards the new accommodation.
Moonyah Managers, Majors Graham and Chris Tamsett, thanked The Salvation Army and community groups for their support in helping vulnerable women achieve their aspirations and re-engage with society into their recovery.
“In partnership we can make a different in people’s lives and this is a great example of that,” Major Graham said.
Linda, a former resident at Moonyah, spoke at the opening about her exhausting battle with addiction over many years.
“I experienced some dark and lonely places for decades, but couldn’t see the reality of my addictions,” she said quietly.
“It wasn’t until I was disgusted and ashamed with my appearance, and realised that my kids loved and needed me, that I did something about it.”
Linda spent 14 months at Moonyah and, despite ongoing challenges, is enjoying a freedom, peace and healing she never thought possible.
The official opening concluded with the Serenity Prayer.
Those present at the opening included current and former Moonyah community members; trustees of The Salvation Army; representatives from Rotary, Zonta and community groups; private donors; Tracy Davis representing Queensland Premier, Campbell Newman; Teresa Gambaro, Federal Member for Brisbane; and other state members.
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