Eldercare Chief Executive Jane Pickering said it was an honour to welcome Mayor Clyne back to the Wayville residential aged care facility two years after he turned the first sod on the project in early 2015.

“Eldercare enjoys a strong relationship with the City of Unley and this redevelopment would not have been possible without council’s support and recognition that its older citizens remain valued members of the community,” said Ms Pickering.

“The Lodge has been transformed since the Mayor turned the first sod on this redevelopment with brand new resident bedrooms created and the refurbishment of existing accommodation across the facility.

“The magnificent White House heritage building has also undergone a complete interior renovation and more communal areas have been created including the addition of a large multi-purpose function room, a luxurious day spa and a modern hairdressing salon.”

Ms Pickering said the decision was made at the start of 2016 to increase the scale of the construction project from $11 million to more than $15 million to support a complete site refurbishment.

“We originally set out with the aim of building a brand new residential wing at the northern end of the facility as well as creating and upgrading more shared spaces for residents,” said Ms Pickering.

“The wonderful feedback we received following the completion of the first stage of the redevelopment inspired us to expand on our original plans and overhaul The Lodge completely.”

Eldercare Board Chair Rev. Dr. Ian Price said Eldercare’s ongoing commitment to upgrading its residential aged care facilities across the Greater Adelaide and Yorke Peninsula regions was integral to the organisation fulfilling its purpose.

“Eldercare’s aim is to deliver peace of mind with our care based on the values of respect, accountability and connection,” said Rev. Dr. Price.

“By continuing to upgrade our buildings to the highest standards possible, we can ensure that residents are comfortable and well cared for in first-class facilities where their needs come first.

“Our investment also demonstrates to all levels of government, to the aged care sector and to the entire state, that Eldercare is dedicated to caring for older South Australians for the long term.”

Eldercare celebrated the official opening of The Lodge redevelopment today by staging two events that were attended by residents, family members, staff, industry representatives and local dignitaries.

Image: Eldercare The Lodge resident Glen Gilchrist cutting the ceremonial ribbon with Mayor of Unley Lachlan Clyne.