Named in memory of Central Gippsland Hospital Matron Margery Cole

Margery Cole is essentially a Low Care Service; however, special provision is made within the Bernie Pendlebury Wing for residents with a dementing illness. There is a commitment at all levels to the principle of Aging in Place up to the point where high level technical nursing care is required.

The Service commenced caring for residents in 1975 and has been subject to several extension and refurbishment projects over the years. Both professional Nursing and Personal Care staff are employed to assist residents who are in need of support in the tasks of daily living from meals and medication to daily hygiene and dressing. Professionally qualified staff are available over the full 24 hour period.

Each resident has a bed-sitting room with semi en-suite. While rooms can be provided fully furnished, each resident is encouraged to bring their own furniture and personal affects so as to minimise the disruption inherent in moving to residential care and to increase comfort, security and the feeling of well-being.

Residents are urged to keep active and retain their independence. Continuation of a resident's existing interests is encouraged and a daily program of activities is provided to assist resident's participation in the community. Telephone connection is available.

Television can be connected in rooms and a large screen set has been provided for residents by the Auxiliary and located in the lounge room.

Couples are catered for, whether one or both of the couple need support, by interconnecting adjoining rooms; there are several locations within the hostel where this facility may be available

Fees - Residential Care

The fees payable by residents are fully regulated by the Commonwealth Government and consist of a base fee which is retained to meet operation costs and an income tested amount which is offset against the subsidy entitlement otherwise receivable. The daily amount payable may be increased by an Accommodation Bond which is, at the residents option, to be paid wholly or in part, as provided by the legislation, on a periodic basis rather than a lump sum, or, an Accommodation charge; both are subject to a resident's "ability to pay". Access to Residential Care is in no way restricted because of any financial incapacity. See the Finance Page(s) for more detailed information.