Over the years, particularly while I was Governor-General, my wife Helen and I have been privileged to listen to the stories of countless people from many walks of life. For us, the most disturbing and challenging of those stories have been those of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged members of our Australian community – and their stories have also been the most important. For we have no doubt that the ultimate measure of the worth of us all, both as individuals and as a society or nation, is how we listen and respond to those most in need of our protection and care.

Enduring serious mental illness, or caring for someone with a mental illness, can be life consuming. The consequences can be completely devastating, with suicide, homelessness, isolation, and loneliness all too pervasive realities. Far too often in our Australian communities, notwithstanding the genuine efforts of government and government agencies, the plight of the seriously mentally ill is ignored or unappreciated because they have become isolated and largely unseen – be it on the streets, or in completely unsuitable housing.

Given this reality, there is an urgent need for us to do what we can at a local level, both as individuals and as members of our local communities, to ensure that those living with an enduring mental illness are recognised and afforded adequate support and care. HOME in Queanbeyan (“HOME”) was established and exists to provide such local support and care.

The initial vision of HOME was that of its founder, Father Peter Day. Put briefly, that vision was the creation of a loving and caring place, a “Home”, for people with enduring mental illness. In the early days, that vision attracted the backing of an outstanding group of like-minded people, including Anne Pratt, Tony Carey, Nick Pelle and a variety of political, financial and other supporters.
Father Peter’s vision has now been fulfilled. Thus, for over fifteen years, with the support of a dedicated Committee, selfless staff, along with a band of generous volunteers, HOME has been caring for some of the most vulnerable men and women in our community. As alluded to, the vision hinges on love – on loving people into life: encouraging residents to live active, fulfilling and happy lives.

While, during its building phase, HOME enjoyed substantial financial government backing, these days, its existence and ongoing operation is independent of government funding and is totally reliant upon the generosity of local donors. It is an absolutely outstanding example of an entire local community – businesses, schools, churches and individuals – combining to transform lives and work for the common good.
I have no hesitation in expressing my support and unqualified admiration for HOME and for all those who, by their work or generosity, have made or make its operations and achievements possible.

Sir William Deane
Governor-General of Australia 1996-2001