A Matt Guy Liberals and Nationals Government will provide $25 million toward the redevelopment of Nathalia Cobram Numurkah Health's (NCN Health) Pioneers Memorial Lodge Aged Care facility in Numurkah.
NCN Health's existing facility was built almost half a century ago, and existing resident rooms and bathrooms are too small to accommodate air equipment including wheelchairs, walkers and lifting aids. The facility also lacks dedicated medical consulting suites, areas for specialised dementia care, and communal areas for leisure activities
Complicating the existing issues are the narrow corridors which make it difficult to move equipment and help frail residents, increasing risk of falls.
That's why a Matt Guy Liberals and Nationals Government will redevelop the 36 bed aged care facility to ensure residents have a modern place to call home.
The commitment will consider NCN Health's recently completed master plan and feasibility study for guidance on how it will look, operate and where it will be located.
Shadow Minister for Health, Georgie Crozier, said supporting aged care forms part of the Liberals and Nationals' commitment to end the health crisis in Victoria.
"Here in Numurkah, residents deserve top quality aged care facilities to properly look after their elderly residents, and these upgrades are critical in meeting the rising demand for aged care in the region," Ms Crozier said.
"Every Victorian deserves access to the best healthcare, and this commitment will deliver a much-needed redevelopment at Pioneer Lodge."
Liberal Candidate for Shepparton, Cheryl Hammer, said the redevelopment was a long time coming.
"Committing to building a new fit-for-purpose aged care facility for the special community of Numurkah and District is one of the most satisfying projects I have advocated for," Ms Hammer said.
"I have visited the Numurkah Pioneer Lodge and have seen first-hand the inadequate 50-year-old facilities the residents are living in, and it's about time the hardworking staff that provide wonderful care to the residents are supported to continue doing that long into the future."
The Nationals Candidate for Shepparton, Kim O'Keeffe, said a modern facility was desperately needed.
"Smaller health services in Numurkah, Nathalia and Cobram help alleviate pressure off larger services in the area, and it is essential they receive funding support to continue provide world-class care," Ms O'Keeffe said.
"Numurkah Pioneer Lodge plays such an important role in caring for elderly residents close to family and support networks, and this commitment is a small way of recognising that hard work and dedication."
