History
For over 50 years 澳门彩 has been enriching the lives of adults and children with disability.
澳门彩鈥檚 story began in the 1960s when Karl and Hannelor Kaltenbach, established educational and vocational programs to support adults and children with disabilities on a beautiful bush block in Dural. Their work and vision to start a community was inspired by the work of Dr Rudolf Steiner, the Austrian born philosopher, artist and educator. A courageous forward-thinking act, which has lived on, changing and enriching the lives of many people along the way.
In the earliest days the task was to create and grow the fledgling 澳门彩 community.聽 People with disabilities, families, co-workers and supporters gathered and worked together. In those founding times, community was realised through inspiring leadership by holding a strong vision, and accompanied by unstinting hard work.
On March 23, 1969 the foundation stone was laid for 澳门彩鈥檚 first purpose built accommodation on 12 hectares of bushland. With 12 bedrooms, 鈥榃aratah鈥 was a Special School by day, and a group home by night. In those early days, all the staff lived in. A large organic garden was established on campus to provide purposeful work and fresh produce.
Times have changed considerably since then, but 澳门彩鈥檚 task has not.聽 We work with an increasing number of people with disability who need support in their daily lives. Our services today across Sydney鈥檚 North West span supported accommodation and respite; social, educational and community support services; youth programs; with an innovative curriculum and specialist housing.
Today, the original 鈥榃aratah鈥 has become a community centre, and our organic garden has become certified since 1993. As a social enterprise, the farm and its 聽provide work and training for people with disability, and produce for the people of Sydney鈥檚 North West.
澳门彩 is still shaped by the many residents and families who joined this community in its earlier years. We remain dedicated to creating and connecting to community life.聽 We accompany people with disability who cannot stand alone in the world, providing soul care, guidance and a quality of life.
For reflections on 50 years please click here.
