Walara Gilbert Valley – Significant Development Launched
The Walara Board met at Walara Gilbert Valley Thursday afternoon 25 May 2023 as part of their monthly meetings and connection with local community.
Chair Malcolm May said it was great to meet residents and staff at the Home and pleasing to get positive feedback on the seamless integration of Gilbert Valley with Walara.
Malcolm said that he also observed a very positive feeling with all present and testament to the great work of staff in supporting residents in their own home.
During the visit Malcolm was pleased to announce the $3.53m redevelopment of the site funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. The funding was an increase on the $1.894m previously announced in late 2021.
Board Members and local resident Matthew Greenslade said he was so proud of the work undertaken, lead by Rob Veitch to secure the funding which will see the upgrading of existing rooms, expanding of 5 existing ensuites, widening of doorways and construction of 4 additional rooms.
Malcolm, Matthew, Board Members Megan Lowe and Kate McCabe, Walara Gilbert Valley Director of Care Monica Ostigh, Hodgkinsons Architect Dario Salvatore and Juncken Builders Jason Billing participated in launching the redevelopment that afternoon.
Walara Chief Executive Officer, Nino Di Sisto said that this redevelopment fits the long term vision of the facility which was to cater for residents increased needs and the community to provide a sustainable future.
Matthew acknowledged the work of previous local Board members (now Walara Ambassadors) and the community for their work and support, and that he was excited by his role as a Walara Board member in contributing to developments in Gilbert Valley and the whole of the lower north. Matthew also acknowledged donations already received toward the major project and said that donations are always welcome as external landscaping will also need to be completed.
Matthew invited community members to contact the Walara Chief Executive Officer Nino Di Sisto, email ceo@walara.au should they have any questions.
