Newsletter | December 2019

Fassifern Aged Care Service Development

It’s taking shape! The Fassifern Aged Care Service development is well on track for completion in mid-2020.The new development will comprise a state-of- the-art 64-bed residential aged care service with safe and stimulating outdoor spaces.

Our aim is to create a welcoming, home-like community where residents will continue to feel safe, respected and valued while receiving the highest quality of care.

When complete, the development will boost the number of residential aged care beds we provide from 81 to 105, increasing the availability of high quality care and support for local seniors and their families.

It will integrate with the existing aged care service and retirement village at our Boonah Campus on Harold Stark Avenue. The Fassifern Aged Care Service currently offers, and will continue to offer, a full range of support, including respite, dementia and palliative care.

Thank you for supporting our project in 2019. We are looking forward to 2020. Churches of Christ in Queensland wishes you all a safe, holy and blessed Christmas.

Fassifern Aged Care Service Development site progress

Fassifern Aged Care Service Development

COMMUNALBBQ AREA

COMMUNALLOUNGE

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CENTRALKITCHEN

WELCOMELOUNGE

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LOUNGE

16 BED COTTAGE 16 BED COTTAGE

16 BED COTTAGE 16 BED COTTAGE

DINING DINING

DINING DINING

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Fassifern Aged Care Service development floor plan

Construction updateThe project has reached a number of key construction milestones. With the buildings now sealed and the all-weather access road completed, we do not anticipate any construction delays due to wet weather events. Work continues on the internal fit out, and we have commenced working on outdoor spaces such as the courtyard and BBQ area. These will feature materials and designs that complement the local landscape. The site will close for Christmas on 20 December 2019 and reopen on 6 January 2020. Surveillance and other security measures will continue to be in place during this time.

Frequently asked questions about the project

Why did you need to build?The existing 40-bed nursing home has a number of limitations restricting our ability to accommodate current and future demand for residential aged care services in the region. The new development will increase capacity at Fassifern Aged Care Service by 24 beds, providing increased support for local seniors and their families.

What are the benefits?The development will provide modern facilities, combined with the highest quality care services, which will support residents to live life to the full. It incorporates the latest in aged care service design innovation, a variety of senior living options, in-home services, and pleasant recreational and social spaces overlooking a newly established dam.

Fassifern Aged Care Service Development

How much will it cost?The project is fully funded by Churches of Christ in Queensland at a total cost of $23.3million. We’re excited to be creating a state-of-the art facility where people will receive the best support within a caring community.

What’s different about it?Our unique and successful cottage model of care design will be integral to the new development. The cottage model supports positive wellbeing and focuses on providing residents with a warm, welcoming home, where they feel safe and secure, along with optimal individual care. It promotes independence while providing opportunities to be involved in everyday lifestyle activities – residents have space for themselves, while being able to enjoy the company of others. Comforting features and surroundings capture the essence of a home-like environment, while dedicated care teams provide as much care and practical support as needed by residents.

What are its key features?The development comprises a 64-bed residential aged care service surrounded by landscaped gardens, a central courtyard and a dam.

Two single-storey buildings will house four cottages. Each will offer 16 bright and spacious private bedrooms, tastefully decorated with quality fittings and furniture, all with their own ensuite and emergency call system.

The cottages will share a large internal community area. This will provide a purpose-built space for lifestyle activities, community gatherings and family social activities.

It will integrate with the natural surroundings, and provide residents with access to their local environment. The courtyard will feature walking paths, seating, a BBQ area, bird baths and water features, creating an attractive, welcoming space for residents and visitors.

Have you considered environmental impacts? We carefully considered the local environment in the project’s design and the impact of its construction. Before commencing work, a licensed flora and fauna

spotter safely relocated 116 animals. Landscaping and gardens will draw on what best suits the local area. By the time the project is complete we will have replanted 100 native trees.

Can we use the dam for recreation?The steep terrain of the land does not allow for easy access to the dam. This makes activities such as swimming and canoeing unsafe.

What will happen to the existing aged care service building?Once the development is complete and residents, staff and all services and infrastructure have relocated, the existing building will be demolished. The area will be landscaped until a decision is made for the best use of the land.

Will you build more retirement living units?We will continue to assess demand for further development in the region.

How will the church be connected to the site?A path will connect both sites, providing pedestrian and golf buggy access. The path won’t be suitable for cars or trucks.

Will the existing cottages remain? The four existing residential aged care cottages will continue to provide a warm and welcoming home for people. Residents will also be able to enjoy the new building’s facilities including the gym and BBQ area.

Will it support Engelsburg Aged Care Service?Engelsburg will receive care and support services from Fassifern Aged Care Service as occurs currently.

What job opportunities will there be?Given the increase in the service’s size we expect to require additional staff, creating opportunities for qualified health professionals, registered nurses, personal care workers and hospitality staff. For more information visit ImagineYourCareer.com.au.

Fassifern Aged Care Service Development

Building communitiesChurches of Christ in Queensland is committed to supporting regional communities and ensuring senior living care needs are met into the future.

We operate a number of services through the Fassifern Campus that are currently delivering high quality care for our residents and support in the community. This includes our aged care services located at Boonah and Kalbar, our retirement living units and our home care services. Boonah Church of Christ is also active in our community, along with our Mission Action Partner who supports community and missional activities. Together we work collaboratively for the uplift of residents and the broader community.

The improved facilities, great spaces and enhanced quality services we are providing through the Fassifern Aged Care Service development reflects our commitment to delivering well-considered services to meet the care needs of the region’s growing ageing population.

More informationWe will continue to provide updates throughout the project. Information will also be available via the project website www.cofc.com.au/developments/boonah. Neighbours, including retirement living residents, please contact CPR Group on 1800 100 204 with any questions. For project updates or service information please contact:

Fassifern Aged Care Service Karrin Auld, Service Manager 5463 1355

Fassifern Retirement Village Alanna Tunchon, Retirement Living Manager 5463 2105

Community Care Sarah Locke, Service Co-ordinator 5460 6500

Integrated Community Justine Cadena, Regional Engagement Partner 0423 479 649

Artist’s impression of Fassifern Aged Care Service development