Born in England to an Australian father and an English mother, he moved to Australia as a young boy in 1952, settling in Melbourne with his family. His early years were filled with transition and change, and in 1969, Andrew moved to Western Australia, hoping to put down roots and build a life of stability. However, life had other plans.
After a relationship breakdown in 1980, Andrew faced years of instability. He moved frequently between boarding houses and rented rooms from friends, never staying anywhere longer than a couple of years. His living situation remained in flux, eventually ending up on the streets.
That changed when Andrew came to St Bart’s. For the first time in decades, he found a place of comfort, security, and community. “It’s comfortable… warm. I can close the windows on a cold day. On a hot day, I can open the windows and get the sea breeze coming through and I’ve got my own bedroom. It’s not like sleeping in the park. The rain doesn’t get me.”
Beyond a roof and four walls, St Bart’s has provided Andrew with a renewed sense of connection. Community breakfasts bring residents together twice a week, fostering friendship and camaraderie. Andrew enjoys sharing meals with fellow residents in the courtyard, chatting over bacon, eggs, and toast. He also loves chatting with staff and going on short walks with volunteers. It’s these simple moments, surrounded by people who care, that have given him peace and stability.
Reflecting on his journey, Andrew says he can’t imagine where he would be without St Bart’s. For him, it’s not just a shelter—it’s a place he can finally call home. Andrew is optimistic about his future, content to continue living steadily in a place that offers him both safety and comfort.
Watch Andrew’s full story here: Andrew’s Story – A Place to Call Home
St Bart’s acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land that we live and work on, the Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation. We are privileged to work with, and alongside, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and encourage those who are emerging as leaders.
St Bart’s is committed to diversity and inclusion in all its forms. We welcome and support the health and wellbeing of all people, regardless of background, age, ethnicity, religion and gender identity.