Ageing Well at Home: Charles Matthews’ Inspiring Journey from Orphan to Mayor

Ageing well at home is about much more than remaining independent. It is about staying connected to the people, places, and experiences that have shaped our lives.

For Charles Matthews, a respected community leader, former Mayor of Randwick, and dedicated public servant, his remarkable journey reflects resilience, purpose, and a lifelong commitment to helping others.

Today, with the support of his family and the Home Care Assistance team, Charles continues to enjoy the relationships, memories, and meaningful connections that have defined his extraordinary life.

From Humble Beginnings to Community Leadership

Charles’ story began in Sydney, where he was born and raised in the Burnside orphanage in North Parramatta.

His early years were far from easy, but they helped shape the resilience, determination, and strong sense of community that would guide him throughout his life.

Before entering local government, Charles worked for 26 years as a shipping inspector with the Maritime Services Board. While his career was successful, his passion for helping people and improving his community remained strong.

In 1977, Charles was elected to Randwick City Council as an Alderman, beginning an extraordinary 35-year contribution to local government.

A Lifetime of Public Service

Charles achieved his long-held goal of becoming the first elected Mayor of Randwick in 1990 after previously serving as Deputy Mayor during Australia’s Bicentennial celebrations.

When asked what he enjoyed most about being Mayor, his answer remains simple:

Helping people.

Throughout his years of public service, Charles became known for his approachable leadership and genuine commitment to the community.

His open-door policy allowed local residents to discuss their concerns directly with him, reinforcing his belief that leadership should always remain accessible.

Supporting the Community

Charles played an important role in many significant community projects.

Some of his proudest achievements include:

• Raising $37,000 for Sydney Children’s Hospital to purchase life-saving equipment.
• Opening the Lionel Bowen Library in 1991.
• Improving environmental outcomes at Malabar.
• Establishing memorial sites at Malabar and Coogee following the Bali bombings.
• Securing funding for new sporting facilities at Heffron Park.

His work has left a lasting impact across Randwick’s parks, beaches, sporting clubs, and community spaces.

The Importance of Staying Connected

One of the most important aspects of ageing well at home is maintaining meaningful connections.

Charles continues to share his stories, experiences, and memories with his family and those around him.

He remains passionate about the community he served and the relationships he built throughout his life.

Social connection is an important part of healthy ageing and contributes significantly to wellbeing, confidence, and quality of life.

A Life Beyond Politics

Outside public office, Charles has lived an incredibly full life.

He spent 20 years as a professional touch football referee, including officiating an Australia versus New Zealand test series.

He has coached junior sport, shown Boxer dogs at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, and participated in the thoroughbred racing industry as a racehorse owner.

These interests continue to form an important part of his identity and life story.

Family at the Heart of Everything

At the centre of Charles’ life has always been family.

Charles and his wife Carol have shared 65 wonderful years of marriage.

Together they have built a strong family legacy, including their sons Steven and Scott, daughters-in-law Jenny and Juliet, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Charles also carries the cherished memory of his son Bradley, who sadly passed away at just 15 years of age.

Today, family remains his greatest source of love, support, and purpose.

Even Bella, the family’s adopted cat, provides daily companionship and comfort.

Why Personalised Home Care Matters

As people age, remaining connected to family, memories, interests, and community becomes increasingly important.

Personalised home care supports older Australians by helping them maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life while remaining in the comfort of their own homes.

Home care services may include:

• Companion care
• Social support
• Assistance with daily living
• Personal care
• Respite services
• Home care support
• Family support

These services help older Australians continue living safely and comfortably while preserving the routines and relationships that matter most.

Key Takeaways

• Ageing well at home supports independence and wellbeing.
• Social connection remains important at every age.
• Life experiences and personal stories should be celebrated.
• Family and community provide strength and purpose.
• Personalised home care helps preserve dignity and quality of life.

Celebrating a Remarkable Life

As Charles prepares to celebrate his 88th birthday surrounded by his beloved family, he reflects on a life rich with achievement, service, and meaningful relationships.

From a young boy raised in an orphanage to becoming Mayor of the city he loved, his journey is one of resilience, compassion, and perseverance.

At Home Care Assistance, we are proud and honoured to support Charles as part of our HCA family.

Discover How Home Care Assistance Can Help

At Home Care Assistance, we believe every person has a unique story worth celebrating.

Our personalised home care services help older Australians maintain independence, stay connected to the people and communities they love, and continue ageing well at home.

Our services include:

• Home care support
• Companion care
• Personal care
• Social support
• Dementia care
• Respite services
• Assistance with daily living

Talk to Home Care Assistance Today

If you or a loved one would like to learn more about personalised home care services, our experienced team is here to help.

Home Care Assistance provides compassionate support that helps older Australians continue living safely, comfortably, and confidently at home.

Because every life story deserves to be honoured.