Friday, 5 December 2025
Residents at Ashford’s Sunhaven Hostel will soon have essential upgrades to their beds with Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan announcing funding for the project through the Community Building Partnership program.
The beds, made at Acacia Medical in Armidale, and will be modernised and able to be lowered more easily with specialised mattresses to reduce the risk of injuries to residents.
Mr Moylan said these upgrades are vital so aging members of the community are safe, and their families can have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are receiving the best possible care.
“Ashford is a tight-knit community, and many locals choose the Sunhaven Hostel for their loved ones to reside in throughout the later stages of life due to its close proximity to family and friends,” Mr Moylan said.
“By ensuring the facilities and equipment are up to a modern standard, families can be assured their nearest and dearest are being cared for in the best possible way.
“The upgrades to the beds not only mean Sunhaven Hostel’s residents are safer and more comfortable, but the facility is also meeting aged-care standards and guidelines.
“It is great to see funding delivered through the Community Building Partnership program being targeted towards bettering the lives of our older community members.”
In the absence of general manager, Kim Meale, Mr Moylan met with Sunhaven’s Residential Services Manager Vina Sibal to unveil the $16,000 grant.
Ms Sibal was grateful for the funding and said the new beds will also benefit staff and nurses through more efficient work practices.
“As a small rural facility, every improvement makes a meaningful difference,” she said.
“This investment aligns with the new Aged Care Quality Standards and our commitment to continuous improvement, safety, and dignity for every resident.
“Low–low beds with specialised mattresses significantly reduce the risk of falls and injuries, promote dignity, and support ageing in place, especially for our most vulnerable residents.
“It also reinforces Sunhaven’s long-term commitment to providing high-quality, person-centred care and remaining a sustainable, trusted service for Ashford and surrounding districts.”
MEDIA: Electorate Office 6772 5552
Photo caption: Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan, Sunhaven Hostel residents and staff celebrate the arrival of new beds thanks to funding from the Community Building Partnership program.