Gabrielle Duykers, Naracoorte Community News
Ten new places are available at Stirling Lodge Aged Care after a much needed expansion was officially completed last week.
Located at Keith and District Hospital, the lodge recently underwent a $4.5 million renovation project, funded by a $2.6 million commitment from the Federal Government, a $1 million donation from an anonymous donor, and other donations from members of the community.
Capital works on the facility have allowed its capacity to expand from 18 to 28 residential care places.
Keith and District Hospital board chair Peter Brookman said he was pleased to see the project completed.
“We are so thankful to the community for their donations in bringing the project to fruition,” Mr Brookman said.
“This will be the cornerstone of the new Keith and District Hospital Healthcare Model.”
The proposed healthcare model headed by the Limestone Coast Local Health Network would see the hospital move into the public health network and transition to a health hub model.
While it would no longer provide 24/7 emergency care, the facility would offer urgent care services and have a greater focus on aged care.
Transition project manager Kelly Borlase said aged care residents would benefit from increased access to respite and rehabilitation, with additional allied health professionals included in the new model.
“We know that the over 80 age group is looking to increase by 75 per cent in the next 20 years, so this really means the aged care needs to be front and centre in whatever future you want to have,” Ms Borlase said.
The hub is set to include a cafe, gym, hairdresser, and garden for residents to enjoy.
Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the facility expansion was a necessity to help cater to the region’s “rapidly ageing” population.
“The expansion of the aged care service at Keith will keep the Keith and District Hospital a relevant service in meeting the current and future needs of the community,” Mr Pasin said.
“(It) will enable Keith and District Hospital to be more sustainable so that they can continue to provide essential health services to the Keith and surrounding communities.”
This article appeared in the Naracoorte Community News
