The refurbishment of the Yalukang Aged Care facility at REDHS has reached a major milestone with completion of Stage 1 of works.  The $2.7 million project, which commenced in April is predominantly funded by REDHS, along with $600,000 in funding from the Department of Health and Human Services Significant Facility Refurbishment Initiative. Raysett Construction has been  engaged to undertake the works.

Stage 1 of the 3 stage project included the conversion of six shared bedrooms into 12 single rooms, each with an en-suite, as well as a significant expansion of floor space in the Dining Room and development of an al fresco dining area.

On Thursday November 4, four residents moved from dual occupancy rooms to the new single rooms. CEO Karen Laing noted that the rooms are just beautiful, and provide greater amenity, privacy and dignity for residents.

“The new rooms provide residents with their own personal space, eliminating the need to use shared toilet and showering facilities”, Mrs Laing said.

“Investment into rural aged care is critical as our local population continues to age. The project has been a complex undertaking, especially alongside the challenges of the pandemic. But we are thrilled with the results so far.”

Mr Eugene Fabbri is one of the residents who moved from a shared room to a new single room. His wife, Sandra Fabbri, said they are both pleased with the new space.

“We both appreciate more space, privacy and of course, natural light,” Mrs Fabbri said.

The couple, who are former dairy farmers, migrated to Australia from Italy in the mid-1960s. They have been part of the Rochester and Elmore community for decades. Sandra visits Eugene at Yalukang Aged Care each day.  “You just never know what’s around the corner,” Mrs Fabbri said. “It’s important for me to be here and to see Eugene happy”.

Ms Laing said “The timing of completing Stage 1 could not have been better.  Residents got to move into their beautiful new rooms and we will all get to enjoy our Annual Resident’s Christmas Lunch in the new Dining Room”. Stages 2 and 3 of the Yalukang Aged Care redevelopment will involve the remaining 4 shared rooms being converted to 8 single rooms.