Hospice project taking shape

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 was thrilled to see the project officially underway.

“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.”

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,” Ms Richards 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 the project as trustees for the funds.

With DGR status, they have 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.

Stahd Like Stone Foundation board chair Georgia McKay said one of the benefits of Stand Like Stone was their 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.

“The Mount Gambier Hospice Feasibility Study is a perfect alignment with Stand Like Stone’s motto to inspire kindness and courage,” Ms McKay said. “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 Sandra Walsh’s leadership, the findings will help shape the vision for a much-needed service for those requiring palliative care and their families.

Sandra Walsh said UniSA was 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.

“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 Walsh said.

“This is about providing dignity, comfort, and support to those in our community facing end-of-life care and their families,” Ms Richards said. “We are hopeful that the results of this study will be a catalyst for real change.”

The feasibility study is expected to be completed by the end of June, with results informing the next steps toward establishing a hospice facility in Mount Gambier.