The MS Society of South Australia & Northern Territory unveiled its new state-of-the art Wellness Centre designed to support more than 2900 people living with multiple sclerosis in South Australia and the Northern Territory at a VIP Grand Opening on 1 May 2024.
The MS Society’s Patrons, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia, and Mr Rod Bunten; and other honourable dignitaries, including State Minister for Health, the Honourable Chris Picton MP, Shadow Minister for Disability, Communities and Youth, the Honourable Heidi Girolamo MLC, and City of Charles Sturt Mayor, Angela Evans, were in attendance for the special event.
MS Australia CEO, Rohan Greenland, MS Society’s Chair and President, Kerry Sanders, Board, clients and other key stakeholders and valued supporters also attended the opening, which featured an emotional and beautiful Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony by Uncle Mickey O’Brien, and an official ribbon cutting, followed by private tours of the Wellness Centre.
MS Society CEO, Jannine Jackson, said she was thrilled to mark the beginning of a new era in care for those living with multiple sclerosis in South Australia and the Northern Territory.
“This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and connection and embodies more than just the construction of a building,” Ms Jackson said.
“We’ve not only created a physical space, but also a haven for wellness and inclusivity for our MS community, signifying a shared commitment to compassion, empathy, and improving lives within the communities we serve.”
Her Excellency Frances Adamson AC said it was evident the Wellness Centre had been “designed with accessibility at its forefront and done so in collaboration with clients”. She also revealed being a Patron of the MS Society was a cause close to her and Mr Bunten’s heart, with family members diagnosed with the neurological condition.
The MS Society engaged local architectural, interior design and construction business, Aube Projects to complete the design and construction of the Wellness Centre. All aspects of the fully accessible building have been mindfully considered, with clients at the heart of the design.
Features of the Wellness Centre include state-of-the-art telehealth and video conferencing equipment, a respite space to take ‘time out’ before or after an appointment, a tactile tract along walls to allow people to steady themselves as they walk and wide door openings to allow for wheelchair access and turning circles.
MS Society client John Hannan, who was diagnosed with MS in 2011, and attended the Grand Opening said the Wellness Centre was “incredible” and a place where people living with multiple sclerosis could navigate their journey with confidence and understanding.
“I look at it and think the Wellness Centre is great for people with MS, with facilities for physio, gym, and any issues they encounter,” Mr Hannan said.
“I love how it’s ergonomically designed and aesthetically appealing, and for those who are in wheelchairs to be able to access everything easily.
“The name speaks for itself – wellness. This Centre is something positive to support people with MS, to support them with their daily life living with MS.”
Check out all the photos from the VIP Grand Opening here.