Beds boost at Woorayl Lodge vital to meeting aged care demand

FEDERAL Independent Member for Monash, Russell Broadbent MP, has committed to securing $40 million to create up to 40 extra beds for aged care residents in Leongatha.

The Federal Government funding would help initiate the highly anticipated construction of Stage 1 of Woorayl Lodge’s new facility on Boags Road in Leongatha.

The design comprises an 80 bed, state-of-the art residential facility that would allow residents to age in the one place.

The original building is more than 50 years old and struggling to meet increasing demand.

Mr Broadbent said that after many years of behind-the-scenes work it is now time to see this project through to completion.

“We are seeking $40 million for construction because the people of Leongatha deserve this project,” said Mr Broadbent.

“We want to ensure people can receive quality care locally, rather than moving location which only places further strain on the resident and their support network.”

Woorayl Lodge is currently a 41-bed facility with more than 30 people on the waiting list.

Co-Chief Executive Officer Andrew Ross said the greater Leongatha region desperately needed the new facility.

Mr Ross said South Gippsland is seeing an increase in the number of people aged over 80 who need care.

“They are not coming into care until later in life, so they have more complex needs.

“There are no other facilities of this scale being planned for this region so Leongatha and the greater region will benefit, not to mention the creation of jobs and the wider economic benefits.”