Exciting progress is being made toward the establishment of a dedicated hospice facility in Mount Gambier, with the recent signing of a feasibility study contract.
The study, being undertaken by the University of South Australia (UniSA) under the direction of Sandra Walsh, marks a significant step forward in addressing the community’s need for quality palliative care.
This important initiative has been made possible through the generous pledges of donations raised at the Key 2 Kindness Charity Ball last year, an event hosted by local real estate business Key 2 Sale.
Key 2 Sale director Gail Richards has been instrumental in securing the necessary funding and is thrilled to see the project officially under way.
“This is an incredible milestone for our community,” Ms Richards said.
“Through the overwhelming generosity of those who supported our Key 2 Kindness Charity Ball, we have been able to make this feasibility study a reality.
“The need for a dedicated hospice facility in Mount Gambier is clear, and this research will provide the crucial insights required to move forward.”
Ms Richards said having a study completed and the research in hand will provide relevant data and facts to take to both federal and state representatives to rally for funding for a much-needed facility.
“With a plan, we have something to sell to the government,” she said.
“The generosity from our community to put the required funds together for this study shows so many in our community support what we are trying to achieve.”
The Stand Like Stone Foundation has also been incredible in assisting with being the trustees for the funds.
Stand Like Stone chair Georgie McKay said the foundation had been able to provide tax-deductible receipts to all the generous community members who have donated to help get the feasibility study off the ground.
“One of the benefits of Stand Like Stone is our ability to be flexible and responsive to community needs and to provide donors with the mechanism to support a cause they care about while also being able to give a tax-deductible donation,” she said.
“The Mount Gambier Hospice Feasibility Study is a perfect alignment with Stand Like Stone’s motto to inspire kindness and courage.
“We’re honoured to support the fundraising efforts of the Mount Gambier Hospice Committee.”
The study will assess the viability, scope, and potential structure of a hospice facility in Mount Gambier, providing critical data and recommendations for future development.
With UniSA’s expertise and Ms Walsh’s leadership, the findings will help shape the vision for a much-needed service for those requiring palliative care and their families.
“We are excited to undertake this feasibility study for Mount Gambier, as it will provide valuable insights into what is required to make a real difference in the community,” she said.
“UniSA is committed to using its research and expertise to support initiatives that improve quality of life, and this study is an important step in understanding how best to address local palliative care needs.”
Ms Richards said the feasibility study was expected to be completed by the end of June, with results informing the next steps toward establishing a hospice facility in Mount Gambier.
“This is about providing dignity, comfort, and support to those in our community facing end-of-life care and their families,” she said.
“We are hopeful the results of this study will be a catalyst for real change.”
