Pictured: Aberlea Board Chair Mick Murphy OAM and Resident Liaison Officer Deb McAuliffe
As the Aberlea Board of Management prepare for their upcoming Annual General Meeting they reflect on the challenges and successes of the organisation over the past 12 months.
Board Chair Mick Murphy OAM notes several positive outcomes despite the challenging environment brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic amongst other challenges.
Mr Murphy is particularly proud of the way that staff have stepped up during the pandemic. “Aberlea haven’t battled as much during COVID as other aged care facilities, and that’s because of our staff and their commitment to residents. This has included carrying out extra shifts to support residents,” he said.
“We are greatly appreciative of the commitment to service staff have demonstrated and continue to deliver. “Staff have not only maintained service, but enhanced it,” he added.
“On behalf of the Aberlea Board, thank you to our staff for a magnificent effort, as always, but in particular during the past twelve months.”
One of the biggest challenges during the pandemic for Aberlea has not been the virus, but the isolation of residents. The isolation wasn’t always during mandated lockdowns, with less opportunities than usual for outings, due to reduced access to bus transport. Currently, when residents require transport, they are reliant on access to the Shire’s community bus, Terang-based taxies or dependence on family and friends. Staff and the Board identified the need for Aberlea to have its own bus, and fundraising began.
For Aberlea to purchase a bus they need to raise $85,000, this will allow the bus to be fitted out appropriately with a wheelchair lift. Fundraising efforts have included the Music Homestead country music show in May and more recently a raffle coordinated by Aberlea resident liaison officer Deb McAuliffe which raised $3500.
The Aberlea Board acknowledge the wonderful support from staff and the broader community for the bus appeal.
“We are overwhelmed with the support from businesses and individuals in the Mortlake community who are so invested in this project,” Mr Murphy said.
The Aberlea Community Engagement Committee led by board member Mary Morton continues to work towards the goal, with about $20,000 left to fundraise.
The Aberlea Inc. Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, 22 November 2022 commencing 2:00pm at the Mortlake Soldier’s Memorial Hall. Nomination forms for Board Members are available at Aberlea and close on Wednesday, 15 November 2022.
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