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Aged Care/Derwent Views (formerly Freemasons)/History of Derwent Views

History of Derwent Views1953

Originally named the ‘Freemasons’ Homes of Southern Tasmania’ and previously managed by Masonic Care Tasmania (MCT), Derwent Views has been at the forefront of aged care in Tasmania since its establishment in 1951. With a commitment to quality care, services, and accommodation, the home continues to provide exemplary aged care services in the picturesque suburb of Lindisfarne. 

The origins of Derwent Views can be traced back to the aftermath of World War II. The initial home was established as a way to commemorate the end of the war and honour the sacrifices made during that tumultuous period. This vision led to the idea of creating a Masonic Peace Memorial, which gained momentum within the Freemasonry community. 

  • In 1951, after thorough deliberation and the examination of numerous potential sites, the current location on Ballawinnie Road in Lindisfarne was chosen. The site, encompassing over five acres and purchased for £2,700, became the foundation for the Freemasons Homes of Southern Tasmania. 
  • The first cottage on the site was built in December 1953, marking the official inauguration of the facility. Two additional cottages were constructed in subsequent years, but were later replaced with modern accommodations in 2006. The new additions comprised seven two-bedroom villa units and two serviced apartments, offering enhanced comfort and convenience to residents. 
  • Recognising the growing need for more low-care accommodation, an appeal was made across the community for support. Backed by a federal government subsidy of ‘two pounds for one’, the first section of low-care accommodation was built in 1959, accommodating 18 residents. Subsequent expansions increased the capacity, with further accommodations and cottages established to cater to a total of 28 residents. 
Freemasons Home Courtyard
  • To meet the evolving requirements of residents in the subsequent decades, the home undertook significant expansions and improvements. Facilities such as administration, laundry and catering services, nursing, dining areas, and communal lounges were added over time. In February 1965, an official opening ceremony was held to commemorate the completion of these extensions, which included launching what was then called the Griffiths, Voss, Waring, and Quigley Wings.
  • Throughout the years, Derwent Views continued to expand its services. The Masonic Centre Kingston introduced self-contained units in December 1983, followed by the opening of the Bowditch Hostel in December 1991. In June 2000, the Masonic Gardens Village further expanded MCT’s reach and impact. These additions collectively provided accommodation for a total of 200 individuals, demonstrating Derwent Views’ dedication to meeting the diverse needs of the ageing population. 
  • Notably, the Masonic Gardens Residential Care facility underwent a comprehensive redevelopment between 2004 and 2005. At a cost of $11 million, the facility was transformed, providing a nurturing environment for 130 residents. This redevelopment represented a significant investment and showcased Derwent Views’ unwavering commitment to delivering the highest standards of care and comfort. 
  • Further expansions and improvements took place in subsequent years. Between 2004 and 2006, Bowditch on the Bay, a part of the home, underwent an expansion, adding 10 additional rooms and three Independent Living Units. This expansion increased the capacity of the hostel to accommodate 34 Low Care residents, ensuring that even more individuals could benefit from the exceptional care and services provided. 
  • In 2016, MCT was officially formed by merging Derwent Views with Fred French Masonic Nursing Home Inc and Masonic Peace Memorial Haven of Northern Tasmania Inc (together previously known as Masonic Homes of Northern Tasmania). 
  • In 2022, MCT merged with Respect, with the latter taking on management of its operations across Tasmania, including the Lindisfdarne home. Early in the following year, Respect engaged with the local community – including staff, residents and their families – to seek suggestions for a new name for the home. Following a survey where all stakeholders were given an opportunity to voice their perspective, Derwent Views was installed as the home’s new name. 
  • Today, Derwent Views stands as a leading provider of aged care services in Tasmania. Its rich history is a testament to MCT’s commitment to the wellbeing of ageing individuals, and Respect is proud to continue that tradition. From its humble beginnings with the establishment of cottages in the 1950s to the comprehensive redevelopment of its residential care facilities, Derwent Views has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of the community it serves.