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History of SIDS and Kids
Hunter Region
Page 2
1990
The SIDA drop-in-centre at Smith St Charlestown is opened just in time for the 1990 Red Nose Day Campaign. Upon completion of the campaign the drop-in-centre only operates between 9am and 2pm Tuesday to Friday
In December, the National SIDS Council Ltd is incorporated as a Company limited by Guarantee. All nine member organisations (one for each state or territory plus SIDA Newcastle) maintain their own autonomy, working together as a Federation.
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1991
Following the 1991 Red Nose Day campaign the drop-in-centre continues to be relatively busy, so a period of remaining open during office hours is trialed. The number of people calling in for support, education and information, phone calls and other national business warrants keeping the centre open during these hours on an ongoing basis.
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1993
The lease on the Charlestown premises is renewed for another 2 years but the search begins for a larger venue.
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1994
By mid-1994 a property is found that appears to have a great deal of potential and a purchase price that can be afforded. However it requires major renovations before it can become the inviting drop-in-centre visualised and the budget cannot expand to meet those costs.
SIDA Newcastle approaches the local building industry and other associated businesses for assistance. The response and generosity of many local businesses is overwhelming.
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1995
The drop-in-centre is relocated to Hamilton South amidst renovations at the end of June. A complete transformation of the building occurs and the 'hall' purchased evolves into a drop-in-centre beyond expectations. Practically, businesses and individuals from the Hunter community have donated all the labour and materials. A permanent framed display at the drop-in-centre acknowledges the gratitude to these sponsors for their outstanding support.
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1998
A presentation is made to Clara to acknowledge her years of work and dedication to the National SIDS Council of Australia and to SIDA Newcastle. At this presentation she shares the vision she had many years ago: "… a dream that Newcastle would have a "Bereavement Centre" where the various bereavement organisations would have a home, never realising that SIDA would one day have this wonderful Drop-In-Centre that would be utilised by other bereavement groups like SAMS, IFFA, Compassionate Friends, SOLLTS and NALAG. So I've seen dreams come true". |
1999
A professional bereavement counsellor is employed by SIDA Newcastle on a part time basis as an adjunct to the support services provided by parent peer supporters.
SIDA Newcastle and district is renamed SIDShunter region to become uniform with the eight other member organisations across Australia who undergo a name change at this time. The National SIDS Council of Australia is renamed. SIDSaustralia at this time. Simultaneously the expansion of services is officially promoted in conjunction with the 1999 Red Nose Campaign. Individual member organisations determine the level of services they will provide to families who experience the sudden and unexpected death of a child six years and under.
Sadly, Clara dies in August. |
2000
During the 23 years of operation, strong links have been established and maintained with professionals in the Hunter region who have or are likely to be involved in any aspect of SIDS, or who work with families affected by the sudden death of an infant. The SIDShunter region Drop-In-Centre is well patronised as the resource provider on SIDS issues by both professionals and members of the community. |
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