Celebrating 45 Years of Gateways: A legacy of inclusion and community
Celebrating 45 Years of Gateways: A legacy of inclusion and community
Next year, we proudly mark 45 years of supporting people with disability and their families in the Geelong and West Melbourne regions. As we prepare to celebrate this milestone, bayFMs Mil spoke with Dr. Bernie Jenner, the founder of Gateways, about the journey, the people who have shaped the organisation, and the vision for the future.
Gateways began more than four decades ago, inspired by a simple but powerful observation. When Bernie arrived in Geelong in 1980 to work as a consultant paediatrician, he saw the extraordinary challenges faced by mothers caring for children with disabilities.
“These women managed incredible responsibilities, often alone, without respite or training, and faced deep isolation,” Bernie recalls. “Their stories were marked by exhaustion, loneliness, and guilt when seeking help, compounded by a lack of community-funded support.”
Witnessing this, Bernie recognised the urgent need for strong community support. Influenced by emerging models of connection and respite he had read about in Canada and seen in Sydney – and inspired by the courage of the families he met – Bernie helped establish Gateways, laying the foundation for an organisation committed to inclusion, support, and empowerment.
Over the years, Gateways’ has grown into one of Geelong’s leading disability support providers. When asked about the secret to this growth and longevity, Bernie is clear: it’s always been about putting people first.
“Relationships have been key,” he says. “Families trust us because they see we care. Our staff, volunteers, and community partners have been with us every step of the way. This is shown in families staying with us long term, and by the fact that Gateways has been a destination employer, with over 70 long-term employees celebrating their service with us.”
Bernie also points to the organisation’s adaptability as a cornerstone of its success. From embracing major changes like the NDIS to continually evolving services, Gateways has remained true to its vision of creating an inclusive society full of possibilities.
Looking ahead, Bernie hopes the next chapter of Gateways will continue to evolve while staying rooted in its founding principles.
“The world is changing, technology, systems, expectations, but the heart of what we do should always be about inclusion and connection,” Bernie explains. “I’d like to see Gateways keep leading the way in building communities where everyone belongs, families feel supported, and people of all abilities have a chance to flourish. The future is about continuing that legacy, growing, adapting, and always keeping people at the centre.”
As Gateways prepares to celebrate 45 years, the focus on our mission and vision has never been more important. The organisation’s journey is a testament to what a committed, caring community can achieve and a reminder that, with support and inclusion, every person can thrive.
For more about Gateways and its services, visit gateways.com.au.
Listen to the full interview below
