Our History

A Council report in 1979, called ‘Strategy for the Aged, part 1, Accommodation’, recognised the growing need to expand support services for older people in Doncaster and Templestowe. This was particularly the case for accommodation.

So in 1981, Council began the long process of establishing a nursing home.

A group of committed, far-seeing people selflessly fundraised and formed a board of management. Some were well-known community members, others not; but all worked tirelessly to make affordable, comfortable aged care a reality in Manningham.

Everyone volunteered their time and skills; that’s the same situation now.

In fact, volunteerism across all our services, both residential and community care, allows us to provide that little bit extra for residents and their families. Pretty special, isn’t it? Find out more.

Land at 371 Manningham Road was leased from the State Government at a nominal annual rent. With a commitment from Council, on top of the community members’ efforts, Manningham Centre Association Inc. (as MannaCare was formerly known) came to life. Then, in 1982, the Federal Government said it would make a contribution, and approved nursing home accommodation for 30 residents.

In March 1985, those 30 residents moved into their new home at what was then known as the Doncaster and Templestowe Nursing Home.

We were called Manningham Centre Association, to reflect the amalgamation of Doncaster and Templestowe local governments into Manningham.

From 30 residents, we now support over 1000 people, which includes clients of our community care programmes and from that one original residential service, we now offer a comprehensive suite comprising both residential and community services.

MannaCare has developed into a dynamic resource, distributing support services costing nearly $2 million every month to mostly Manningham’s frail, older people, their family and friends. It’s quite an achievement!

Those who rely on us, appreciate it.