Bequest leads to new Busselton Hospice hub

The generosity of a much loved local resident will see a new service provided to community members navigating ageing, dying, death, and bereavement.

Opened last week, the Miss Doris V. Lowe Resource Hub was established following her death in 2023 at the age of 101.

Miss Lowe made provisions in her will to support local charity Busselton Hospice Care Inc, a volunteer-run organisation supporting the community and family members with end of life experiences.

Busselton Hospice Care Inc. Chief Executive Officer, James Jarvis said the Resource Hub was designed to reflect Miss Lowe’s passion for lifelong learning and her desire to help others.

“It is clear that as our population ages, and loneliness increases despite a boom of increased online connectivity, some people are excluded from accessing critical support and information on ageing, dying, death, and bereavement,” he said.

“The Resource Hub is a place for people to connect and be supported by our passionate volunteers.

“The Miss Doris V. Lowe Resource Hub enables people diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, and their carers, to be supported in navigating services that are now found mainly online, maybe read a book on bereavement, or have a cuppa and a chat with a volunteer.”

Mr Jarvis said the Resource Hub would be an important part of the support system for people living in Busselton and surrounding communities.

“By investing Miss Lowe’s bequest into a Resource Hub, we can pay forward her generosity to future generations,” he said.

“We are creating a more inclusive and caring community, where people are valued and respected. Miss Lowe’s family have given their blessing and attended the official launch.”

The launch on August 8 was attended by members of Miss Lowe’s family, as well as Hospice Care volunteers and stakeholders.

The Resource Hub is situated within Geographe Bay Centre, 5 Craig Street, Busselton and opening times will be advertised on www.busseltonhospicecareinc.org.au.

For more information, contact Busselton Hospice Care Inc on 9751 1642 or admin@busseltonhospicecareinc.org.au.