Still making a splash after 50 years
By Wendy Shaw
The contribution of the Catholic Women’s League to the establishment of a hydrotherapy pool in Ulverstone half a century ago has been acknowledged at a special celebration.
The CWL was one of a number of community groups and individuals who were invited to mark the 50th anniversary of the pool at the Respect Mt St Vincent aged care facility on 19 May.
Former CWL state secretary Wendy Fittler, who is George Town CWL branch treasurer, was surprised to receive the invitation, but was told that CWL had generously supported the building of the pool.
“The pool was a progressive idea at the time but had wide support from individuals, families, organisations and businesses in the area,” Mrs Fittler said.
“Apparently, the Ulverstone [CWL] branch was fully behind its development. Sadly, we have no branch left there, so I contacted State president Wendy [Harrap] and she agreed that we ought to attend to represent CWL Tas Inc on behalf of the past Ulverstone branch.”
Mrs Fittler and Mrs Harrap were greeted warmly by Respect staff and made welcome.
“They were impressed that we travelled all the way from George Town to share in their special event and we were treated a bit like the stars of the show—an indication, I guess, of the value they placed on the support of the League all those years ago,” Mrs Fittler said.
“I am not aware of the extent of the contributions made by the Ulverstone Branch to Mt St Vincent at the time, but their effort was acknowledged with the presentation of a beautiful certificate presented to president Wendy for CWL Tas, as well as to some family groups and other organisations.
“The pool has been recently restored and is used frequently by residents of Mt St Vincent and other community members. So a big thank you to our past Ulverstone branch for their contribution to the establishment of this wonderful facility which is still greatly valued by the Ulverstone community today.”
The Mt St Vincent aged care facility was run by the St Vincent de Paul Society for many years until 2019 when management was transferred to Respect.
In an online post marking the anniversary, Respect said the hydrotherapy pool’s milestone marked 50 years of supporting rehabilitation, wellbeing and community connection
“Originally built with strong local community support, the hydrotherapy pool has played an important role over five decades in assisting people with rehabilitation and improving quality of life through water-based therapy programs,” the post said.
“The event acknowledged the contribution of therapists, volunteers and community members who have helped shape and sustain the service over the years.”