NoosaCare Carramar celebrates 40 years of dedication to aged care on 30 May 2025, a legacy that began with a vision in the 1970s.
Noosa Council Chairman Ian Macdonald and Noosa Quota Club president Thelma (Daddow) Cahill recognised the urgent need for an aged care facility in Noosa.
In June 1976, Ian and Thelma led a public meeting in Tewantin to survey demand.
That night, with a lot of enthusiasm and support, an aged home steering committee was born. At meeting’s close, Ian borrowed a hat and tossed in $10, challenging all present to donate. These were the first monies raised.
In 1977 Carramar Home for the Aged (then known as Noosa Home for the Aged) was formally established. Carramar – an Aboriginal word meaning “shade of trees” was inspired by a magnificent mango tree on the site (which was chosen for its central position in relation to Noosa Shire). Thelma designed Carramar’s tree logo.
Carramar opened with five lodges in December 1984 and was an early pioneer of the ‘small house model’ in residential aged care—a now-emerging trend that emphasises smaller, more intimate household settings to enhance resident wellbeing and social interaction.
Today, the Carramar site reflects a resort-style design that harmonizes with the relaxed, coastal character of the Noosa region.
Forty years on, Carramar remains a beacon of compassionate care, built on generosity and vision. As we celebrate, we honour the pioneers who made it all possible.
