Estia Health hosted a closing down celebration for its residents and staff this week as they prepare to move into their new facility.
The original building on Samaria Rd, Benalla, has been a pillar in the community over the past 30 years, providing a warm, comforting environment for the aged care residents it serves.
Estia Health Benalla care director Maree Riley has worked there for almost 30 years and says the lead-up to the move has been bittersweet.
“Today’s a celebration to say goodbye to the end of an era,” she said.
On Thursday, November 9, the staff and current residents joined in celebrating the move.
By November 17, they will be fully transitioned into their new home at the Royal Freemasons on Thomas St.
The move was announced in August, with Estia Health acquiring two Royal Freemasons homes, one in Benalla and the other in Bendigo.
All 120 beds will be filled in the new facility.
“It accommodates the residents a lot better,” Ms Riley said.
“All the rooms have got their own ensuites, and they’re larger and homey.”
The staff will also be transitioning to the new service on Thomas St, with the move taking place over the next week.
“I’m looking forward to the future and getting to know all the other residents,” Ms Riley said.