scosa, the Spastic Centres of South Australia Inc plays an important role in South Australia's history.

The Woodville campus was first established in 1950, through funds raised from the public. The idea of the centre was inspired by Dr Earl Carlson, a Cerebral Palsy sufferer himself. Dr Carlson wanted a facility to be established in South Australia to provide better lives for people with disabilities.

To help raise further funds to support the growing organisation, The Spastic Centres of South Australia became actively involved in the Miss South Australia and Miss Australia Quest. Established in 1954, this quest not only helped raise funds to support the services, but also increased community awareness of the organisation.

The Woodville site over its 50 year history, has been home to a number of services with the aim of supporting people with disabilities. It was once a school that provided education to disabled people; it offered speech pathology, physio and occupational therapy services to help people develop their physical capabilities; medical services and splint making facilities were also located at the campus along with accommodation and even palliative care and nursing home services.

However, in 1995 the responsibility for the education of children with disabilities was transferred to the Education Department. During this same period, institutional accommodation began to devolve to community settings and so CARA (Community Accommodation and Respite Agency Inc), was established. CARA is now an independent organisation and shares our history.

The Spastic Centres of South Australia still exists today and continues to provide day services to disabled people throughout South Australia. We help develop both their living and social skills so they can become a valued member of their local community and enjoy activities and social interaction with others.

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