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Davenport House was established in 1964 as an open residential care centre for secondary school girls under the care of the Children's Welfare and Public Relief Department. It was named for Lady Davenport, a member of the first State Children's Council.
The building was purchased by the Department in 1964, but due to a delay in completion of required renovations, only eight girls were initially allowed to reside there. Once building was complete, 18 girls could be accommodated. Between 1972 and 1975 the average number of girls living at davenport House was 11.
As at Allambi Girls' Hostel, girls from Davenport House attended various local schools. With the permission of the matron they were allowed to take up outside activities such as sport. Church attendance was arranged and girls' homework was supervised. The Department provided girls with a small amount of pocket money. The first superintendent of the home was Miss E M Dobbin.
While Hostel Staff fulfilled some parental duties, contact between the girls at Davenport House and their families was encouraged. The girls were also encouraged to take responsibility for their own care. While some children leaving Davenport House were returned to their families, others were placed in foster-care or private hostels.
Davenport House closed on 18 May 1977.
Davenport House - girls' bedroom
