ABOUT US > OUR HISTORY
Our History
Built by the Community. Guided by Heart Since 1973.
Manor Court exists because a community believed that older people deserve more than just a place to live. They deserve a place to truly feel at home.
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For more than 50 years, our purpose has been guided by a simple and heartfelt promise: to provide compassionate, person-centred care that honours every individual, fosters a strong sense of community, and ensures every resident feels valued, respected and at home.
Responding to a Community Need
In the early 1970s, the Werribee district, while rich in community spirit, faced a growing and urgent challenge: limited local options for aged care. Families were increasingly finding that as their loved ones required more support, they were forced to look far beyond the boundaries of Werribee to find suitable accommodation and care.
Recognising this need, the Rotary Club of Werribee took a pivotal step in 1973. They initiated a project to explore the feasibility of establishing a local elderly citizens' home. This was not just a clinical project; it was a deeply personal mission driven by the desire to keep families together and ensure that Werribee's heritage was respected and preserved through its people.
This separation was heart-breaking for many. It meant moving away from familiar streets, long-time friends, and the families who had lived in the area for generations. The community knew that their elders deserved better. They deserved to age with dignity, right here in the place they called home.
A steering committee was formed, bringing together dedicated local leaders and residents who shared this vision. Their tireless advocacy and planning culminated in the first public meeting held in June 1974 at the Werribee Shire Hall. The turnout was a testament to the community's shared commitment: the people of Werribee were ready to build something lasting.
The site of Manor Court, originally known as Hogan’s Paddock, was made available through a generous donation of land by the Hogan family, prominent local identities and landholders in Werribee. This gesture provided the crucial foundation needed to turn the community’s vision into reality.
Construction began through dedicated community fundraising and support. On 23 April 1979, Manor Court officially opened its doors, welcoming its first five residents. It was a moment of immense pride for the steering committee and the entire Werribee community who had worked tirelessly for years to make it happen.
Originally serving as a hostel for the aged, Manor Court’s primary purpose was to provide a safe, supported environment for those who could no longer live independently but did not yet require full nursing care. From its very first day, the focus was on creating a true home that maintained independence while fostering a sense of belonging.
Building Manor Court
Werribee Banner, 3rd October 1979
Growing With Our Community
By the 1980s and 1990s, the needs of our community were growing, and Manor Court grew with them. Ian Knight, along with other dedicated committee members, spent countless hours working with the government to secure the necessary funding and approvals for expansion. It wasn't just about adding more beds; it was about evolving our services to meet the changing needs of Werribee's families.
Our design philosophy remained constant: every wing and every room was built to feel like home, moving away from the clinical feel of traditional institutions. In 1994, a major expansion was completed, followed by another significant development in 2010. Each brick laid and each garden planted was a reflection of our promise to providing better options for aged care locally.
A home built by community, for community.
Manor Court Today
Manor Court today is a place of care and community for 100 residents. It remains community owned and is a stand-alone not-for-profit aged care home. It is still governed by a local Board of Directors, and managed by a dedicated team of professionally trained, long-serving staff and loyal volunteers. Manor Court remains deeply rooted in Werribee, providing an essential resource for local families.
Manor Court has evolved significantly since that first public meeting in 1974. Yet, through all the changes, expansions and new developments, the constant has been our commitment to delivering compassionate, high quality, home-like care.