Last week, we were honoured to welcome Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner to Xavier Place to officially launch our energy efficiency initiative, proudly supported by the Lord Mayor’s Community Sustainability and Environmental Grants Program.

The Lord Mayor was welcomed by Richard Littler, Xavier CEO, Sandra Daniels, our General Manager of Clinical Services and members of our board Bernard Baker and Deb Clark, before unveiling a commemorative plaque to celebrate this important milestone.

The 30kW solar system, installed by Paramount Energy, will reduce Xavier Place’s environmental footprint while helping to keep energy costs down, ensuring that more resources can go directly to supporting our children and young people.

“As an agency of the Archdiocese of Brisbane, this initiative is a significant milestone in our commitment to sustainability,” said Richard Littler. “It aligns with the principles of Laudato Si, which calls for a shift toward total sustainability. Reducing energy costs through solar means we can invest more in delivering the best possible care and experiences for our guests.”

During his visit, the Lord Mayor spent time with Xavier clients Joel and Maddie and met therapy dog Chester and his owner Brad. Joel presented the Lord Mayor with a Xavier teddy bear and Maddie took the opportunity to chat with him about his pets.

Sandra Daniels highlighted the practical impact of the upgrade. “The children and young people who stay with us require complex care, making reliable power essential for everything we do,” she said. “Initiatives like this help us maintain a safe, nurturing and welcoming home-away-from-home for our guests.”

The Lord Mayor shared his appreciation for the work being done at Xavier Place. “It’s incredible to see how this program supports services like Xavier Place,” he said. “By helping reduce energy costs, we’re enabling more support to go back into the vital care provided to children like Joel and Maddie.”

At Xavier Place, we’re committed to evolving and enhancing the programs we offer—from art and music therapy to community outings and more. Thanks to this initiative, we’re building a more sustainable future while continuing to provide the highest standard of care for our children and young people.