History

We are very proud to acknowledge that it was the Gulgong community’s desire to create a facility for our aging citizens, that was the initial driving force behind the establishment of Gulgong Hostel Association Inc (now Wenonah Lodge and Wenonah Community Care).

We are very proud of our history and the strong community relationships and connections that helped us get to where we are today, and we cherish the dedicated and enduring nature of our community’s support, their passion for, and their ongoing interest in everything we do to continually improve our premises and services.

Whilst Wenonah Lodge officially opened in 1991, planning and vital fundraising commenced 4 years prior. On October 15th, 1987, Wenonah’s first Committee was formed after a public meeting in the Memorial Hall addressed the crucial need for permanent aged care services in the Gulgong community.

Between 1987 and 1990, the very supportive Gulgong community injected funds into a vigorous fundraising campaign, that raised over $200,000. In addition to nearly every business and many individuals within our district supporting the project to some extent, major donations throughout this period included contributions from The Royal Freemasons Benevolent Institution ($50,000), Gulgong RSL Subbranch $30,000 and Legacy $13,500.

In 1988, the Gulgong Legacy Subbranch generously donated the land at 27-31 Mayne Street and shortly after in 1989, Member for Calare, David Simmons, turned the first sod and planted a tree to begin the project.

On 23rd August 1990, we welcomed our first resident, a momentous occasion; and on March 3rd 1991, Wenonah Lodge (then referred to as Gulgong Hostel Association Inc), was officially opened by the Honourable David Simmons, M.P.

Fast forward to 2001 and we increased our services to our local aged community further when Gulgong Meals on Wheels was taken over by Gulgong Community Services Inc. and then amalgamated with Gulgong Hostel Association Inc. and Wenonah Community Care.

A year later in 2002 Wenonah Community Care, expanded its services to offer additional domestic assistance such as lawn mowing and personal care, in addition to the Neighbour Aid transport and Gulgong Meals on Wheels. All vital services that remain firmly entrenched within our community today.

Subsequently Wenonah Community Care was licensed to provide Home Care Packages, known as Support at Home from 1/11/2025, and we are proud to currently provide Home Care Packages to over 80 community participants and provide Commonwealth Home Support Services for over 70 community clients.

Gulgong Hostel Association Inc - Wenonah Lodge and Wenonah Community Care is proudly owned and operated by the Gulgong Community. As a not for profit organisation, all funding is reinvested into Wenonah Lodge and Wenonah Community Care, ensuring our services and levels of care are maintained at the highest standards.