The Shepherd Centre was honoured to welcome Her Excellency the Hon. Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, for her first visit to their Newtown centre. As Patron of The Shepherd Centre, Her Excellency spent time with deaf children and teens, their families and clinicians, gaining insight into the life-changing impact that early intervention can have for deaf children and their families.
Witnessing Life-Changing Early Intervention
During her visit, the Governor-General spent time with families at the beginning of their journey and with young people who have progressed through The Shepherd Centre and Hear For You programs, now thriving, confident and supported by a community dedicated to helping them reach their potential.
Families Share Their Journeys
Families shared their experiences of navigating their child’s hearing loss diagnosis, highlighting the importance of early access to sound, rich language exposure, and structured intervention in helping their children develop strong communication skills.
Celebrating Expert Care and Community Support
Reflecting on her visit, Her Excellency described what she saw as “one of the clearest examples of care in action.” She witnessed firsthand how The Shepherd Centre’s expert team provides wraparound care that supports each child and family, enabling children to develop language, confidence and meaningful connections that extend beyond childhood into education, employment and independence.
A New Patron for The Shepherd Centre
From 1 July 2024, Ms Mostyn has served as Patron of The Shepherd Centre, succeeding Joint Patrons His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) and Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley, whose dedication and years of service are greatly appreciated.
The Shepherd Centre is deeply grateful to Her Excellency for taking the time to visit the Newtown centre and for her ongoing support of the children, families, clinicians and generous donors and supporters who make up The Shepherd Centre community. We look forward to creating many more meaningful memories together over her term.
Moments from the Visit
See moments from Her Excellency’s visit in our photo and video gallery here
