Word has recently been received that the application had been successful.

The priority focus was the completion of the air conditioning project.

The government grant supplements the funds raised from the community through the public appeal and the funds already invested in the project by Great Lakes Nursing Home.

“We were absolutely overwhelmed by the response to the public appeal and, to date, have received more than $20,000 in donations from individuals and organisations,” president of the Great Lakes Nursing Home Management Committee Jack Ireland said.

“This funding will be used to proceed with installing air conditioning in the Rosenthal Wing and the administration area.

“Our application clearly detailed the support the community is giving to us via the public appeal and I have no doubt that this added great strength to our case for funding,” Mr Ireland said.

The second project is the installation of a lift for travel between the two floors of the nursing home.

The lift will be located on the outside of the building adjacent to the lounge rooms on both floors.

The third project is the upgrading of the security systems.

This project will support the provision of a safe and comfortable environment consistent with resident care needs.

“These three projects have been identified in our Continuous Quality Improvement Plan as the projects that would make the most difference to the living and working environment of residents and staff,” executive officer of Great Lakes Nursing Home Kay Smith said.

“2008 will be a very exciting year for our residents and staff as we watch these projects come to fruition and then enjoy the many benefits they will bring to all of us,” Mrs Smith said.

The management committee would like to thank the members of the community, the Federal Member for Paterson Bob Baldwin and the Australian Government for their tremendous support.

The complex provides accommodation for 10 low care residents, 45 high care residents and two high care respite residents.

Anyone interested in aged care is invited to come and view the facility. If you wish to discuss specific care or financial details then you can ring the administration staff who will organise a suitable appointment.