The Gawler Foundation welcomes back Mr Siegfried Gutbrod in his new appointment as Therapeutic Director, effective immediately.
Karin Knoester, CEO, is thrilled that Siegfried has joined the Gawler Foundation. ‘He brings a wealth of inside knowledge, skills and experience to the role, as well as a great deal of excitement and enthusiasm.’ she said on announcing his appointment.
Siegfried left The Gawler Foundation five years ago to make a contribution to the humanitarian challenge of South Africa in a volunteer role. He worked for seven months at a large orphanage at Magaliesburg, near Johannesburg. He was involved in the day-to-day running of the orphanage which accommodated 160 children and provided physical, emotional and spiritual care for the many children and villagers dying of AIDS.
Siegfried then moved to Hermanus in the Western Cape to join Camphill Farm Community. This community provided a home and work environment for 60 adults with intellectual and/or physical disabilities. The protective workshops included a large dairy farm, bakery, vegetable and herb gardens, candle and craft workshops.
Family reasons brought Siegfried back to Australia at the end of 2009.
Members of the Yarra Valley community will remember Siegfried for his vibrancy and zest for life, but he also provided counselling and spiritual care for many in challenging times. He spent almost nine years with the Gawler Foundation (1996-2005) in the role of General Manager and therapist and is widely regarded for his compassion, insight and understanding. He has a Masters degree in Counselling and a special interest in ‘end of life’ counselling.
Siegfried will start his new role by participating in a ten day retreat at The Gawler Foundation. ‘I am humbled to be able to reconnect with the programs, participants and my colleagues in such a profound and enlivened way.’ he says.
Siegfried will be available for interview and comment from Wednesday 21st April, 2010.
For more information, please contact Lindy Schneider, The Gawler Foundation Media Department on (03) 59671730 or 0417 365 697.
Filed under: Media Coverage, Press releases 2010, Uncategorized
