Uralla Shire Council has celebrated a successful $500,000 grant application from the Department of Health’s Aged Care Regional, Rural and Remote Infrastructure Grant Program, to make much needed “fit for purpose” upgrades to the ensuites at McMaugh Gardens Aged Care Centre in Uralla, and a further $111,870 for the Grace Munroe Aged Care Centre at Bundarra.
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The funding followed council's resolution at its Ordinary Monthly Meeting on December 18, to refurbish the current site by renewing and upgrading existing facilities.
Council acting general manager Terry Seymour welcomed the announcement of the grant and praised the work of the McMaugh Gardens Aged Care Centre staff for their part in gaining the funding.
It’s sensational. Council has been looking at its options for that site.
- Terry Seymour
“The building that has 36 units had these ensuites which were built in 1990 and they were in dire need of refurbishment, to assist with the ongoing future of the facility,” he said
“The Initial facility was built for low-care and is now providing high-care. So, there’s a greater need to have much better facilities with wider doorways and better plumbing amenities.”
Mr Seymour said a council assessment of McMaugh Gardens as part of developing its Business Strategy estimated about $880,000 worth of work was needed during the next decade, so there was still a funding shortfall to be found.
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“This $500,000 goes a long way to sorting us out for the next few years,” he said.
“Council will try to make some funding available through its Business Plan, as well as government grants.”
Mr Seymour said the funding announced for the Grace Munroe Aged care Centre was also terrific news for the Uralla Shire.
“I think we’ve been very fortunate, we’ve had good support from out local Members,” he said.
Member for New England Barnaby Joyce thought the funding was a great festive season bonus.
“These aged care homes [are] set to receive the funding early in the New Year,” Mr Joyce said.
“It’s going to boost activity in local construction and employment, while delivering quality facilities for older residents living in the New England.”
Mr Joyce said Barraba District Retirement Homes Association (Richardson House) would also receive $465,000 for bathroom renovation and bedroom refurbishment, and Tenterfield Care Centre will receive $495,000 for the upgrade and renovation of 33 bedrooms and ensuites.
“These upgrades will boost the productivity and sustainability of local aged care services, which play a critical role in our communities,” he said.