The $13 million project – which will add a new residential wing to The Whiddon Group’s existing home on Illumba Way in Kelso – is nearing completion, and admissions for new residents will start in May.

The new wing will add 60 residential places to the home’s existing 51 beds, making Whiddon’s facility the largest residential home in Bathurst.

The Whiddon Group director of care services at Kelso Nicole Mahara said the home has 60 names on its waiting list – which she said was common across the Bathurst region due to a shortage of aged care beds.

“At the moment, the waiting time for a bed in Bathurst is between two and five years. I’m hoping this 60-bed facility can mean we can start afresh and have adequate beds in Bathurst,” she said.

Among the features of the new wing are a modern new foyer and reception area, an on-site cafe, new service areas for the kitchen and laundry, new outdoor areas and secure internal courtyards. 

Each of the rooms is private and has an ensuite. A limited number of large rooms and adjoining rooms are also available.

Eighty-nine-year-old Alex Bedwell – whose family has enjoyed a long association with The Whiddon Group Kelso – was the first person to put his name on the waiting list.

“They kindly showed me a plan and let me pick a room that was suitable,” he said.

He was chuffed when he learnt one of the floors of the new wing had been named after his family.

“It was a bit of a shock but the family has been involved [in the Whiddon Group] for a long time.”