Groundwater Lodge — Speech in the Federation Chamber 24/06/2024

Hansard 24/06/2024  House of Representatives

Mr LLEW O’BRIEN (Wide Bay) (16:15): Maryborough has been hard-hit by the aged-care crisis, and government needs to do more to support older Australians, who built our country. But, in times like this, it’s heartening to see organisations like Apollo Care stepping up to ensure that senior Australians can receive the care they deserve. Last week I officially opened the final six of 30 new ensuited rooms at the Maryborough Groundwater Lodge residential aged-care facility, the product of a $2 million investment to upgrade the facility.

While there, I chatted with residents Joe and Lillian. Joe has been kept busy in his retirement as the lodge’s resident carpenter, producing outdoor furniture in Joe’s Workshop for the enjoyment of residents, visitors and staff. Lillian is a World War II veteran and stalwart of the Tiaro RSL. The Maryborough district is Joe and Lillian’s home, and the role that Groundwater Lodge plays in allowing them to age within their community is incredibly valuable. We are the lucky country because the contributions made by our senior Australians made it so. We owe it to them to ensure they receive quality, comfortable care, and that’s what’s happening at Groundwater Lodge in Maryborough.