by Diane Tronc (guest author) on 1 June, 2011
Silky Oaks Children’s Home was founded by the Open Brethren and first opened in Toowong, Brisbane, Queensland in 1940. In 1946 the Home was relocated to Manly. Former Silky Oaks resident Diane Tronc shares historical photos of the Home, her foster family and the Silky Oaks Reunion in May 2011.
Diane and Alan Bull
Diane with her foster parents, Allan and Audrey
Child residents at Silky Oaks, c. 1960s
Children at Silky Oaks, c. 1960s
Former Silky Oaks staff member, May 2011
Lynette and Diane, with Queensland state flag. Diane says, “I was a ward of the state and so I hold the flag as a reminder that the state has a duty to care”.
from L to R: Elizabeth, Karen, Helena, Cheryl and Lynette
Diane Tronc with Minister Rudd and the text for the National Apology to Forgotten Australians and former Child Migrants
Silky Oaks Foundation Stone
The instutition was controlled by the religious sect/cult known as the Christian/Plymouth/Open Brethern now community churches prefer to protect there bricks and mortar than listern and accept children were raped sexually abused sent children who made allegations to solicitors rather than beleive there allegations a book is being written the history of Silky Oaks without fear or favor and the brethren
Yes a cult it was and a hell of a life.
Will be good to see the book out their and our Historical journey as survivors and our life stories told.
Steve by your comments you have read part of Mike book written in line with “Once a Brethren Boy” I known Mike Please contact my experience at SO is one I find hard to tell but will very soon