The visionary behind over 40 years of quality care

Gateways Support Services has always been driven by a mission of quality care, inclusion, and support—values that stem directly from our founder, Dr Bernie Jenner OAM. In recognition of his exceptional service to the community, we are proud to announce that our new boardroom has been named in Bernie’s honour. This space will serve as a daily reminder of his remarkable legacy and the values that continue to guide our work.

Bernie’s vision was clear from the very start. As a consultant paediatrician and family therapist, his goal was to provide families and children with disabilities the support and community connections they needed to thrive. In 1982, Bernie founded Gateways Support Services to fulfil this mission, building a culture of care that has grown stronger over the last four decades and still is an active board member for Gateways.

Naming the space after Bernie is a tribute not just to his role as a leader and advocate, but also to his deeply personal connection to our work. Bernie’s accomplishments—such as founding Hope Bereavement Care, mentoring generations of paediatricians, and creating a cohesive paediatrics department at Barwon Health—are a testament to his dedication. His long list of awards, including an Order of Australia and recognition as an Australian Day Ambassador, further illustrate his profound impact on the community.

At Gateways, we honour Bernie every day by continuing his work, ensuring that every family feels cared for, supported, and respected. The new space named in his honour, reflects Bernie’s compassionate spirit and lifelong commitment to helping others. As we gather in this space to make decisions that impact the future of Gateways, we’ll be reminded of Bernie’s long standing influence.