Vale Doncare’s Doreen

Tributes to a remarkable human being and leader

Doreen Stoves AM PSM JP (CEO of Doncare, 2001 - 2020) came from humble beginnings. Born in England, Doreen left school at 13 to work as a nanny, and at 21 she decided to move to Australia. She then spent the next four decades making significant contributions to the community sector in Victoria. Doreen’s commitment to disadvantaged children and families went beyond her professional life; together with her partner Maureen, she fostered over 40 children and raised five children to adulthood. As CEO of Doncare, Doreen worked passionately to implement a diverse range of innovative programs to support the disadvantaged members of our community. Thank you Doreen, you are an inspiration.

No one was more passionate, determined & thoughtful about keeping women & children safe than Doreen. She has inspired & taught so many of us, and her legacy continues in the organisations, policies & programs she initiated and drove and the many lives she touched. Rest in Peace Doreen. Mary Wooldridge Member for Doncaster 2006-2014

My wonderful friend & colleague — your smiling face will be sadly missed. Thank you for the years we worked closely together & the support you gave me. Esther Murray CEO, Manningham Community Health 2007-2011

Dear Doreen, you left this world a better place than you found it. Your reach & influence is immeasurable. A female leader who lived & breathed her values with heart, compassion & determination. There is no better role model. You will be missed & never forgotten. Our heart goes out to your family. Paula Piccinini Manningham Councillor & Mayor 2019

We have lost an absolute giant of the Manningham community. A caring and authentic leader whose selflessness and dedication set a lasting and very high benchmark. My condolences to Maureen and family. Doreen’s legacy will endure. Andrew Day CEO, Manningham City Council

So many memories of an amazing person. I had the privilege of working with Doreen the entire time she was at Doncare. Her support, forthrightness, wicked sense of humour, and generous heart will be greatly missed. A one of a kind lady. Sincere condolences to Maureen & family. Cheryl Watt

I had the honour and privilege of being both a contributor to fundraising for Doncare and a recipient of their help in my time of need (Doncaster Balcony Collapse). Doreen has left an imprint in my heart that will never be erased. Her presence will still be felt for generations to come as she has left such an amazing legacy! RIP to a beautiful woman. Sofia Georgiou

I feel grateful and honoured to continue the amazing legacy you left at Doncare. We will miss you and will do our best to continue with the passion and energy you demonstrated. Gaby Thomson CEO, Doncare n

From the top (left to right): Beautiful Doreen; Doreen & Stella; Esther, Mary & Doreen; Andrew & Doreen; Doreen, Linda Dessau, AC (Governor of Victoria) & Paula; Doreen & Cheryl; Doreen & Sofia