1300 727 957
As the year comes to a close, many people take time to reflect on their lives and consider changes to build a better future. For those struggling with substance use, this reflection can mark a pivotal moment—a chance to take the first courageous step toward recovery. Lives Lived Well is here to help, offering support through Mirikai, a longstanding residential rehabilitation service on the Gold Coast.
Fifty years ago, local GP Dr Rob Richardson founded the Gold Coast Drug Council to address a critical gap in support for individuals facing substance use challenges. In 1981, the Council established Mirikai in Burleigh—a name that means “place of peace”. From its early beginnings as a small brick house, Mirikai has grown into a leading residential alcohol and drug treatment program, helping people aged 18 to 35 reclaim their lives.
In 2012, the Gold Coast Drug Council merged with the Alcohol and Drug Foundation Queensland to form Lives Lived Well. This partnership blossomed from a shared vision, ignited by the realisation of the good that could be accomplished together, by combining expertise and resources.
“The establishment of the Gold Coast Drug Council was a visionary step,” said Lives Lived Well CEO Mitchell Giles. “We are grateful to Dr Rob Richardson, Mary Alcorn and everyone involved in those early days for laying the foundations.”
“Today, we’ve built on that legacy by expanding the support we offer on the Gold Coast, integrating evidence-based practices, and ensuring Mirikai remains a place where individuals can rebuild their lives.”
For Clinical Services Manager Vicky Mouatt, Mirikai holds a deeply personal significance. She has been a staff member at Lives Lived Well for nearly 20 years, but her connection with Mirikai began even earlier when she came through its doors as a client.
“I’m personally passionate about this place,” Ms Mouatt said.
“I came here as a client myself and recovered here. Mirikai is an amazing place that helped change my life.”
Reflecting on her time with the not-for-profit, Ms Mouatt said there have been so many memorable moments over the years.
“Really, it’s the number of people who come here and change their lives. Whether that takes one treatment episode, two, or three, we want people to know they can come back and keep trying,” she said.
“It’s amazing when clients return years later to say hello and share how their lives have improved. Those moments are really special.”
Mirikai offers a structured, supportive six- to 12-week program where clients live together, participate in daily therapy, and learn life skills. They can stay as long as needed and transition to supported housing in the community when ready.
In 2023–2024, Mirikai supported 276 people through its residential rehabilitation program, with an average bed occupancy of 95%. From January to June 2024, 96% of clients reported an improved quality of life, and 98% reduced their substance use within three months.
A Patient Experience Survey completed by over 200 clients showed 97.6% satisfaction with the service and an average rating of 4.65 out of 5.
“At Lives Lived Well, we understand that making the decision to seek support can be one of the hardest steps a person takes,” Ms Mouatt said.
“That’s why our team is here to talk you through your options, whether that’s live-in support at Mirikai or one of our community programs. We take self-referrals, so if you’re ready to reach out, we’re here to help you find the support that’s right for you.”
Lives Lived Well is a not-for-profit healthcare provider that offers evidence-based services across Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia. Enquiries about Mirikai and other Gold Coast supports provided by Lives Lived Well can be made by calling 1300 727 957 or visiting www.liveslivedwell.org.au.
-ENDS-
For media inquiries, please contact:
Lisa Larkin, Marketing and Communications Manager, Lives Lived Well
[email protected] | 0428 433 572
