Established in 1988 in response to serious threats of the closure of the local PAM hospital's aged care section by Hunter New England Health, the Tenterfield Care Centre was birthed out of necessity and a community's shared passion for keeping our seniors close. After extensive research and funding challenges, the dream for a dedicated care facility was finally achieved with the establishment of a first-class 22-bed hostel known as Millrace Hostel.

Always seeking to grow and cater to more residents, the Tenterfield Care Centre Inc committee expanded the Millrace Hostel in 1996, adding an additional 13 beds to its capacity. We then went further, erecting 6 self-care units within the premises. All of this expansion was achieved through wise financial stewardship of bequests, donations and tireless efforts from our generous community volunteers.

The progress of our centre faced challenges when in 1995, the NSW Government offered a multipurpose service that required the Tenterfield Care Centre assets to be absorbed by the State. Standing strong, we chose not to join, choosing independence and a local approach over bureaucracy.

By 2001, our steering committee secured a deal with the Commonwealth Government for a new project, Haddington Nursing Home. Construction began with an initial target of 30 beds, eventually increasing its capacity to accommodate 50 beds as demand grew.

In 2003, Haddington Nursing Home officially opened, receiving the first residents from the PAM Hospital long-stay ward. Haddington, designed for future expansions, underwent a successful extension phase in 2008, creating 16 more rooms and offering care to a total of 46 residents, including respite care services.

2009 marked a pivotal moment in our history as we transitioned from an Incorporated Association to a company limited by guarantee. Governed by a board of directors under a new constitution, the growth and expansion of our organization required this essential transition.

Currently, we have 82 residential care places and 8 self-care units across our facilities. Ongoing developments will continue to expand Haddington’s capacity, set to complete in stages over the coming year.

Through the unwavering support of past, present and future community volunteers, and the generous donations of time, goods, and funds, Tenterfield Care Centre continues to provide outstanding care to our aging community. Our story is proof of what we can achieve when we come together, embodying our mantra: For the community, by the community.