Barwo Homestead update

In the last update Barwo had a number of options to investigate. Barwo’s Committee of Management and the Working Group have been gathering information and talking to other providers as those options are explored.

Becoming a Supported Residential Service was one of the options. The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing provided plenty of information about running a Service. Expected income and expenses were calculated and showed a loss would be incurred even if the facility was fully occupied. This was confirmed by other facilities who said they are currently running at a substantial loss. This option has been eliminated from consideration.

NCN Health has been approached for their interest in increasing their aged care capacity in Nathalia. They are seeking advice from the state Department of Health. Communication between Barwo and NCN Health continues.

The costs of converting the Homestead building to independent living units are being investigated. Plans are being drawn up so that the costs of the building works can be estimated. This will determine the funding required and the expected cost for residents. Then community interest can be gauged – will the cost to move in be attractive to prospective residents?

At the same time information on building more units on the surrounding land is being gathered. This includes the costs of developing the site with the required services of roads, water, sewerage, power, drainage, etc. An estimate of building costs is being obtained. Information on the market’s expectations for the size and features of units, and on models for operating the housing, have been sought from other similar not-for-profit operations across the state.  Again, community interest will be gauged in what would be offered and the price.

If the costs and expected income show a viable business case and there is interest in the housing offered, the reconfiguration of the Homestead building will be the first work undertaken. All appropriate permits will need to be obtained first.

There is still a great deal of work to be done on these options. The financial viability and the likely level of demand for this type of accommodation will be critical. In the meantime, Barwo Homestead is being maintained in readiness for its next stage.