Anglicare Victoria
26 November 2025
Max McLeod, with his trademark bow tie and cheeky grin at 97 years young, warmly recalls a life shaped by nearly a century of connection with Anglicare Victoria and its founding agencies. Left at just 23 days old at the Arms of Jesus Babies Home, Max’s childhood was spent in various homes, most notably St Nicholas’ Boys’ Home in Glenroy until the age of 16.
“It was very good. I was brought up well, enjoyed outings to the beach and I got a lot of friends out of the home that I’ve kept in contact with”, he shared fondly.
Despite tough times—once even wearing a sugar bag for trousers—Max looked back on his youth with gratitude. “I was always happy and had nothing I could complain about. He worked on the farm, played football, and built friendships that have lasted a lifetime. His affection also extended to the staff. “They were all good to me, always. I can’t speak highly enough of it”.
Thanks to Anglicare Victoria’s Heritage team, Max eventually found his long-lost family. He celebrated his 86th birthday surrounded by newfound relatives and has maintained close relationships since then.
In a final gesture of gratitude, Max has made the auspicious decision to include Anglicare Victoria in his Will: “They looked after me. It’s in your hands what you do with it”
If you have already or are considering including Anglicare Victoria in your estate plans, we’d love to have an opportunity to thank you for your commitment and kindness.
Please visit our website www.anglicarevic.org.au/get-involved/bequests-gifts-in-wills/
OR
Call our Gift in Wills team on 03 9412 6020.
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