AGED care facility, Rose Lodge in Wonthaggi is in a phase of expansion after receiving $2 million from the Federal Government to construct an additional dementia unit, Rose Cottage.
This expansion and imminent plans to expand the facility into surrounding land prompted the Board of Rose Lodge to invite the Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor and Councillors to attend an informal ‘meet and greet’ last week.
“I think it’s important that we share (our plans) with the Council, who have a big responsibility as part of their planning in looking after people as they get older,” said Chair of the Board of Rose Lodge, John Duscher, who is hoping to strengthen the relationship with Council.
“The Bass Coast has one of the highest-aged populations in the state. So, there’s a great responsibility to work with us and other aged care places to make sure that we’re providing the best facilities and the best home for all our people here.”
Mayor Rochelle Halstead, alongside councillors John Temby and Meg Edwards attended Rose Lodge, enjoying afternoon tea with the residents, the staff and board members, before touring Rose Cottage.
Rose Cottage is anticipated to be completed this November, and will be a 17 bed facility, specifically built to cater to residents with dementia and higher care needs.
Mayor Halstead addressed the residents on the day and said she and her colleagues were excited to be at Rose Lodge, to have a chat and to find out about the facility and the Rose Cottage project.
“We can take that back to Council, and we’re about to go into Council planning. That’s what’s going to drive the organisation for the next four years, while this term of councillors are in, and the long-term financial plan. So, this is perfect timing to be here visiting with you and learning from your experience and being able to take it back and thread some of it through some of those really important documents,” said Cr Halstead.
While funding from the government has ensured construction of Rose Cottage is underway, the board are welcoming and would be grateful for donations from individuals or community groups to help contribute to the cost of fitting out the new facility.
Mr Duscher added that donations would go towards making Rose Cottage a comfortable, calm, and safe space that the residents could feel at home in and enjoy.
