People of Helping Hand: Arthur Strange

It’s hard to believe that Helping Hand Aged Care all began with the passion and purpose of one individual – Padre Arthur Strange.

At just 17 Arthur Strange began preparations to join the ministry. He was accepted in 1914, but the following year was enlisted to serve in the Australian Army Medical Corps in World War I, serving until 1919.

Ordained in 1920, he served in several circuits in South Australia and acquired the title ‘Padre’ in World War II serving in the Australian Army and the RAAF.

Padre Strange had a powerful vision to care for others, this came to life in 1953 when he stumbled upon a ‘For Sale’ sign on Molesworth Street, North Adelaide. With 12 hours to secure a deposit of £750, he called a family conference. The rest, as they say, is history!

Padre Strange led Helping Hand with a vision of innovation and progressive thinking, an enduring legacy which continues to this day. His impact extends far beyond the walls of Helping Hand; it has touched the lives of countless people and their families.

As Mother Teresa once said, “I alone can’t change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.”

(Information and image courtesy of Helping Hand Aged Care, 1953-2003, A History by Pauline Payne)

Return to News