News

Respite home nearly finished
Wed, Mar 12 2008

RESPITE HOME NEARLY FINISHED

Bacchus Marsh’s new disability respite house is at lock-up stage thanks to generous donations from local businesses and the building industry.

The EW Tipping Foundation expects to open the home in the next few months to provide families caring for someone with a disability with a much-needed break.

Building manager Shane Cook, of Shane Cook Homes, says support for the project has been outstanding.

Amongst those to donate goods and services so far are Selkirk (bricks), Lafarge (plasterboard), Pier Industries (batons), A & K Flower Plastering (labour and donation co-ordination), Stratco, Plumbkor (plumbing), Marshall Engineering (steel fabrication), Allpress Printing (signage), Darley Concreting (concrete slab), Wilson’s Hardware & Building Supplies, Covertite, WallsPlus, Stegbar Windows and Total Truss Systems.

Shane said there are many more donations and discounts still coming from local businesses to complete the building.

“We have been extremely pleased with the generosity of our suppliers,” he said. “They have helped make this project a reality”.

The facility is desperately needed. At the moment, Bacchus Marsh families are forced to travel to respite facilities in Ballarat or Melbourne. Respite is crucial for families to be able to take a break from long-term care, and gives people with disabilities a chance to enjoy new activities and meet new people.

The facility will include 6 bedrooms (two with hoist facilities), two separate living areas and two bathrooms with disability access. It will be available for overnight, weekend and longer term stays, with separate weekends for adults and for children.

The project will cost close to $950,000 and the Foundation is planning to borrow to meet a funding shortfall. “Whilst borrowing means extra expenses, we feel it’s important to have the facility up and running as soon as possible,” said Chief Executive Officer Richard Dent.

Anyone wanting to support the project can make a donation at the ANZ Bank in Bacchus Marsh or a direct payment into account number 013 511 2597561 73.

More information about accessing respite is available from the Moorabool Team Leader, Andrea Jacka, on 0439 560 261.