McQuoin Park retirement living residents nod to the past while paying it forward!
At McQuoin Park, a legacy of compassion lives on. What began with the Mercy Sisters generations ago, a deep, unwavering commitment to care for mothers and their children, continues today through the heartfelt generosity of the retirement living residents.
That same spirit of giving has found a powerful outlet through Hope in a Suitcase. This not-for-profit organisation aims to lessen embarrassment, hurt, shame, fear, and insecurity for those entering foster care with few possessions. Instead, they aim to provide a ‘suitcase of hope’ filled with essential items to replace a ‘plastic bag of shame’.
McQuoin Park retirement living residents have embraced this mission with open hearts. Spearheaded by McQuoin Park Maintenance Officer, Vincent Turner, the community has established a donation initiative, with a large collection box placed in the common area to make it easy for residents to contribute. Their response has been extraordinary.
‘It is true to say that McQuoin Park residents are incredibly generous with their donations,’ said Village Manager Karen Wacando.
Last year, Hope in a Suitcase volunteers visited McQuoin Park for the first time during their monthly village meeting to personally thank the residents for their contributions. That visit sparked an outpouring of support—over 70 suitcases were donated in a single collection, filled with thoughtfully selected items. The residents also raised funds to buy even more suitcases, ensuring no child must carry their life in a plastic bag again.
McQuoin Park's long-standing tradition of love, care, and community continues today through this partnership. To learn more about Hope in a Suitcase, visit Hope in a Suitcase - Australia.
Step back in time – McQuoin Park’s long history of caring for mothers and children
McQuoin Park stands as a living testament to more than a century of compassion, service, and community spirit.
This rich legacy began in 1865, when the North Sydney Mercy Sisters arrived in Sydney under the leadership of Elizabeth McQuoin, also known as Mother Mary Ignatius. Born in London in 1819, she joined the Sisters of Mercy in Liverpool in 1848, answering a call that would eventually transform countless lives across Australia.
The Sisters of Mercy were founded in Dublin in 1831 by Catherine McAuley, whose vision of compassion, especially for women and children, would echo across continents. In a twist of providence, the Sisters, initially destined for Bathurst, were instead redirected to join Mother McQuoin in Sydney. From their first humble efforts in Church Hill, where they taught children and housed girls in the crypt of St Patrick’s Church, their mission quickly expanded.
Under Mother McQuoin’s leadership, the Mercy ministries grew to encompass education, healthcare, and social welfare. In 1879, they established Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy College in North Sydney, a school that continues to thrive. By 1906, The Mater Hospital was founded, becoming a cornerstone of compassionate healthcare in the region.
In 1897, another milestone emerged when Mother Aloysius Casey founded an orphanage in Waitara to care for foundlings and destitute children. This institution evolved into a registered Training School for Mothercraft Nurses, and later, in the 1970s, became the Mercy Family Life Centre, providing aged care, children’s services, counselling, and welfare support.
By 2001, the Mercy Sisters transitioned some of their services to Centacare Broken Bay, acknowledging their ministry's changing needs and capacities. The remaining focus turned to aged care and support for women in crisis. Eventually, these vital services were entrusted to Catholic Healthcare Limited, who continue to uphold the Mercy legacy today.
The original site at Waitara, facing the Pacific Highway, is now home to McQuoin Park Retirement Living Village and Residential Aged Care—named in honour of Sister McQuoin. The village is a vibrant expression of the Sisters' enduring values: compassion, dignity, and a deep commitment to serving those most in need.
One of the retirement village buildings bears the name ‘Casey’ as a tribute to Mother Aloysius Casey and the generations of Mercy Sisters whose lives were devoted to others. McQuoin Park is more than just a place; it is a living chapter in the story of mercy, faith, and community care that continues to inspire.
Picture frame featuring Mother Mary Aloysius Casey
McQuoin Park Retirement Village is Expanding!
Construction has recently begun at McQuoin Park Retirement Village with an additional 79 apartments being built, increasing the village's total to 167 units. The new apartments will be available for pre-sale starting in August 2025.
To enquire about becoming a resident of McQuoin Park, for the ultimate in retirement living, call our friendly team on 1300 308 372.