A record-breaking surplus, new infrastructure rising, and more agendas on the boil.
At Shepparton Villages’ Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, October 29, about 100 attendees, including staff, community members, and Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell, gathered to reflect on a year of remarkable achievements.
The organisation has been proactive in meeting the demands of the aged care sector, of which chief executive Veronica Jamison is particularly proud.
“From a governance perspective, we’ve stayed on track with the wider aged care reform agenda,” she said.
“In particular, we’ve introduced the quality care advisory body and consumer advisory body, and we have a plan in place around the introduction of the new mandated care minutes.”
Shepparton Villages, recognising its staff as its greatest asset, has also implemented 24/7 registered nurses in all aged care homes and a mandatory 15 per cent salary increase for direct care staff.
The organisation has made significant strides in maintaining compliance with aged care and National Disability Insurance Scheme accreditation standards.
This includes updating all emergency management plans and reviewing the risk management framework.
Financially, Shepparton Villages is thriving, reporting a surplus of $2.8 million – a first in several years.
“It's been a lot of hard work to make that happen,” Ms Jamison said.
“(The surplus) was underpinned by high occupancy levels, investment income, and, of course, increased government funding.”
In addition to the surplus, the organisation is making progress on infrastructure projects.
Work has advanced on enacting the Tarcoola Master Plan, with the demolition of the old Hakea and Grevillea Lodges completed.
The Shepparton South Rotary Club has also made dedicated efforts in making the first stage of the Intergenerational Park a reality.
In partnership with Shepparton Villages, the club successfully launched the initial phase of the park, which features an electric barbecue, a barbecue shelter, and seating areas.
Dr Harry Lee was also celebrated for his contributions to Shepparton Villages by being awarded life membership.
Dr Lee was a long-time Quality and Clinical Governance Committee member and an esteemed GP who visited patients at Shepparton Villages.
“We thank Harry for his invaluable clinical skills and expert knowledge,” board of directors president Jeanette Powell said.
As the meeting concluded, the focus turned to what’s next.
“We’re very focused on being future-ready, and our organisation is well-placed to go into the future in all the areas we work in,” Ms Jamison said.