St Francis’ House and St Margaret’s have been officially opened, along with about half of St Paul’s House, with 27 residents now settled in the redeveloped area.

Stage two is already under way with areas being emptied for the building of the remainder of St Paul’s, along with St Mary’s, St Teresa’s and St Michael’s. The work is scheduled to be completed in about 15 months.

When fully redeveloped, Nazareth House will house 145 residents, an increase of 20. They will also have more space and better care, Sister Superior Clare Breen says. 

“The space is needed for lifting machines and wheel chairs. The older rooms were too small, the corridors too narrow and the bathrooms didn’t allow all care needs to be attended,” Sister 

Clare said.

“Because of the new facility the staff are able to give better care.

“The need for aged care is increasing. The residents coming in are frailer and there is still a waiting list of 150. 

“We admit residents on a needs basis and we have relatives ring us every day asking if we have a place available.”

Nazareth House was founded in 1888. The redevelopment replaces buildings built in 1964-1965.

The new individual rooms come complete with their own en suite along with equipment which allows staff to lift the residents into their wheelchairs with the minimum amount of discomfort.

The doorways are wider to permit easier access and, in some cases are colour-coded for easier recognition.

The redevelopment also includes new gardens, staff facilities, recreation and common rooms.

Sister Clare said residents relocated to the newly opened houses had settled in well.

gavin.mcgrath@fairfaxmedia.com.au