With the outdoor areas near completion the Alzheimers South Canterbury  Park Centre was officially opened today at the Timaru Botanical Gardens. The former Park Bowling Club headquarters has been completely refurbished under the guidance of Alzheimers SC president Diane Nutsford, and she along with Alzheimers SC patron Jan Hide, former All Black captain Reuben Thorne, and Rangitata MP Jo Goodhew, officiated at the ceremony. Invited guests included representatives from the Timaru District Council, funders, service clubs, construction firms. Alzheimers SC staff and Park Centre users.

Alzheimers SC president, Diane Nutsford, thanks attendees for assisting in the funding and construction of the Park Centre project.

Alzheimers SC president Diane Nutsford

Alzheimers SC patron, Jan Hide, thanks Diane Nutsford for being the driving force behind the fundraising for, construction and completion of the Park Centre complex

Sonia King (Accredited Visiting Service – Age Concern), Les Jones (Aorangi & Harding Memorials), Robyn Baldwin (Timaru Senior Citizens) and Liz Shea (CEO, Community Trust of Mid & South Canterbury)

Reuben Thorne, former All Black captain and “Champion for Dementia” congratulates Diane Nutsford and her team for the transformation and development of the Park Centre complex.

Former All Black captain, Reuben Thorne, highlights the progress made since he last visited the Park Centre.

Rangitata MP, Jo Goodhew, congratulates all involved with the completion of the project.

Rangitata MP Jo Goodhew, Alzheimers SC president Diane Nutsford, and Alzheimers SC patron officially open the Park Centre.

Jenny Ensor and Bill Steans from the Timaru District Council

Murray Roberts (Trust Aoraki), Les Jones (Aorangi & Harding Memorials) and Irene Emond (Trust Aoraki) chat following the ceremony.

Michael Parker (CEO, Presbyterian Support SC) and Ron Luxton (SCDHB) in conversation

Members of the Rotary Club of Timaru North, who funded and gave practical assistance to the project, in front of the “Rotary Nook”

Members of the Rotary Club of Timaru North

Timaru Host Lions Club members in front of the “Lions Den”

Timaru Host LIons Club members gave funding and practical assistance to the project.

Funding and sponsorship board

Rose Davidson (Alzheimers SC Staff) and the brick pathway acknowledging donations

The outdoor area is wheelchair accessible and features a number of raised gardens

The Park Centre has a a day care facility, meeting rooms, a kitchen and an extensive and attractive outdoors area