Sir William Hudson Memorial Centre (SWHMC) Joins the Respect Family

Respect is excited to welcome Sir William Hudson Memorial Centre (SWHMC) in Cooma, NSW, to its growing network of homes across the country. 

SWHMC first opened in 1984, following years of fundraising and grassroots support from the local Snowy Monaro community. Currently, the home includes 70 rooms. 

Following a positive vote from the SWHMC Board last week, Chairman Roger Norton said the merger was positive news for residents, staff, and the community. 

“SWHMC was built through the efforts of the community. Thanks to this alliance with Respect, the board and I are confident that it has a very bright future, and that Respect will continue the good work,” Mr Norton said. 

“Respect supports our values and has a strong reputation for quality care and has significant experience in operating aged care homes in smaller communities. We sought out feedback from other communities where homes have joined Respect, and all the reports were overwhelmingly positive. 

“We couldn’t have asked for a better provider to join. They’ve been outstanding and I look forward to seeing the home thrive under their leadership.” 

Jason Binder, Managing Director and CEO of Respect, said the move would secure SWHMC’s future and ensure the home’s service and support for residents and their families, as well as the community, continues. 

“We recognise we’re temporary custodians of our homes and that we need to make sure the history, name, and all the work gone into these community assets is respected. We’re fortunate to operate them in our communities, and without the hard work of those before us we wouldn’t be in the position we are able to care for so many older people,” said Mr Binder.

“As an organisation with a regional focus, we’re looking forward to continuing SWHMC’s collaborative culture of support and care for residents, as well as the important role the home has traditionally played in Cooma and for the broader Snowy Monaro community.” 

SWHMC becomes the 20th aged care home to join Respect, a 100-year-old organisation dedicated to serving the older people across Australia, through its high standard of care and community involvement.

Respect has grown significantly throughout its history, particularly in the last decade to include nine homes in Tasmania, eight homes in Victoria, and three homes in New South Wales. Respect also has home care services in multiple states, and more than 700 units in different retirement villages and independent living communities.

In June 2023, Sir William Hudson Memorial Centre was renamed as ‘Hudson House’.