There were gasps of surprise and cheers of approval on Saturday evening as member for Bega and Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance announced $300,000 towards stage 2 of the Community Carers Accommodation at South East Regional Hospital (CCASE).
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Speaking at the Gallopers for Carers charity dinner organised in conjunction with the Sapphire Turf Club anbd Club Sapphire, Mr Constance said it was absolutely critical to have the carers accommodation in place.
CCASE president, Lynne Koerbin was unable to attend the dinner but took to social media to express her delight.
“What fantastic news! As our local MP, Andrew Constance has been a huge supporter of the carers accommodation project since day 1 - it's such awesome news that he's been able to make this funding announcement,” Ms Koerbin posted.
Speaking on Monday prior to the formal announcement at the carers accommodation site next to the hospital, Ms Koerbin said that it was a complete surprise but put the second stage of the project for a further six motel-style rooms, within reach.
“Andrew Constance has been a really strong supporter of the project and attended a number of fundraising events.
“This will make a huge difference,” Ms Koerbin said.
The group is working on a funding submission for stage 2 works to the federal government’s Building Better Regions fund. Any funding must be matched dollar for dollar and the $300,000 announced by Mr Constance will allow the group to apply knowing they have the matching funding to back up their submission.
The tender process to select builders for stage 1 has closed and a recommendation is expected to be made at the CCASE meeting on February 20.
“We would expect building construction to be underway in March and it would be a six month process,” Ms Koerbin said.
The plan is to have two buildings of six motel-style rooms with a central kitchen and communal lounge area.
“This money comes in addition to $100,000 provided by the NSW government in 2016 towards stage 1,” Mr Constance said.
“This funding injection which will have a tremendous benefit to our entire region allows us to support local families when they need it the most. NSW Health Minister, Brad Hazzard has seen the benefit of this fantastic facility and I thank him for his commitment to the South East.
Mr Constance said that patients and families from Batemans Bay to the Victorian Border and across to the Monaro were set to benefit from this facility.
“With South East Regional Hospital now operational, it is more important than ever that the carers accommodation is completed.
“Given the large catchment area being serviced by the SERH and the distances travelled by patients and their families, having access to affordable onsite accommodation will be beneficial during those times.
“Carers accommodation such as this can provide a more positive experience for families of sick loved ones. To have somewhere close, comfortable and most importantly safe when away from home is essential.
“To Lynne and the entire CCASE committee, our community and all those within it, along with our entire region who are supporting this project, congratulations to you all on this next phase,” Mr Constance added.
