General News
6 July, 2022
Final push for Aberlea bus funds
A NEW Aberlea Community Engagement Committee is being formed with a goal of helping to raise the final $19,000 for the aged care facility’s own $90,000 bus.
A NEW Aberlea Community Engagement Committee is being formed with a goal of helping to raise the final $19,000 for the aged care facility’s own $90,000 bus.
Aberlea board member Mary Morton said while the organisation received some government funding, it covered only basic operational needs with little left over for other necessary amenities.
“Currently, when our residents require transport, we’re reliant on access to the shire’s community bus, Terang-based taxies or dependence on family and friends,” she said.
“The community bus is not always available; both the bus and taxis must be booked well in advance; and not all residents have people they can call upon, or who are equipped, to transport them.
“Acquiring our own bus would directly address all these concerns, enabling us to provide cost-effective, convenient and safe transport for all residents as and when weneed to.
“It would also allow us to schedule a more comprehensive program of outings and excursions for residents, many of whom have been largely confined to Aberlea for the past two years on account the pandemic.”
The community has rallied around the cause with a number of fundraising events held.
Among the most recent, the team at the Mortlake Roadhouse donated 30c from each potato cake sold during June to support Aberlea in the purchase of the new bus.
A total of 4562 potato cakes were sold, with $1368.60 raised.
Ms Morton said, first and foremost, Aberlea existed for locals so that older members of the community can stay in their community.
“Aberlea is one of very few independent aged care operators in south west Victoria, and the only aged care facility located in the Moyne Shire’s north,” she said.
“We’re passionate about the health and well-being of all our residents.
“More importantly we want to provide them with the very best facilities, amenities and services we can, to ensure that their lives are as happy and comfortable and fulfilled as we can make them for as long – or as little, that they remain in our care.”
Those wanting to make a donation or become involved in the Aberlea Community Engagement Committee are invited to contact Ms Morton on 0418 369 636, or Aberlea Mortlake on 5599 2901.
Aberlea is accepting expressions of interest from enthusiastic and passionate community members to become involved in the committee.
The organisation seeks people who really care about Aberlea and its residents and who are keen to build community connections to the facility.
