“I learnt at an early age that it is more blessed to give than to receive, and I’ve tried to live like that.”
For Ipswich local Annette Kirwood, those aren’t just words – they are a way of life.
Annette is a passionate supporter of Carinity Colthup Manor, donating regularly – often each month – to help support the aged care home and its residents.
“I’ve had a wonderful life and I feel very blessed,” she says. “I need to give back what I’ve been given. Every little bit helps.”
A connection that spans generations
Annette’s association with Carinity stretches back more than 70 years.
Her grandfather, Ernest Kirwood, was one of the early residents of Clifford House in Brisbane in the early 1950s — Carinity’s first aged care home.
Today, Annette still holds a treasured photo of her grandparents, Ernest and Ann Kirwood – a reminder of the family’s long connection to the organisation.
But it is a deeply personal friendship that has strengthened her commitment in recent years.
A lifelong friendship
Annette’s great friend, former workmate and housemate, Marg Elvery, moved into Colthup Manor two years ago after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
The two women, both nurses, once shared a flat on the Colthup Manor premises and walked together to nearby Ipswich Hospital for work. As members of the Bella Nova Singers, they sang for residents at the very home Marg now calls her own.
Today, Annette visits Marg every day in the home’s memory support unit, which provides specialist care for residents living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
“I’ve been able to see the care that Marg has received, and it has been very good,” Annette says.
“The staff are so patient and they manage Marg and her condition just wonderfully.”
For Annette, the daily visits are a privilege.
“I’m so indebted to the staff for the way they look after Marg. They said I can come up here every day and sit with her. I look forward to coming here.”
Giving thanks in a practical way
Annette says her donations are simply her way of saying thank you – for the care Marg receives and for the support she herself has felt.
“It’s a way I can express my thanks for the care that they’re giving to Marg, and the support they have given to me,” she explains. “I’ve been accepted as part of the family.”
In a time when aged care is often discussed in terms of challenges and reform, Annette’s story highlights something just as important — compassion, gratitude and community.
And for this Ipswich woman, giving back is not about grand gestures. It’s about quiet consistency – and making sure those who care for others feel supported in return.
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