New Goulburn respite cottage offers carers chance to take time out to recharge

Candlebark Cottage, a four bedroom "specialised bed and breakfast" was officially opened on Monday, April 11.

The cottage is operated by health and aged care provider HammondCare and is named after the commonly-found Eucalyptus tree.

HammondCare general manager Bay Warburton described the respite cottage as a home away from home for older people who are frail or living with dementia.

"One of the biggest concerns is that carers don't get a break," Mr Warburton said.

"The cottage gives carers an opportunity to care for themselves and do things that they want to do.

"Usually if carers themselves are well, they can care for others for longer, which means people can stay at home instead of needing long-term care facilities."

Candlebark Cottage is the first of its kind in the region. A maximum of four guests can stay from one to 10 days and there are two specialist trained staff who work 24/7.

ALSO READ: Literary legends take to GPAC stage for BookFest

The cottage contains a television room, reading room, kitchen and backyard. Guests are invited to relax or take part in organised activities.

They can also be involved with cooking or just simply enjoy prepared meals.

People can organise to stay at the respite cottage through the existing Commonwealth Home Support Programme, or it can be self-funded.

Mr Warburton encouraged people interested in the accommodation to give HammondCare a call to work out a plan.

Candlebark Cottage is the 5^th respite cottage built by HammondCare and they are planning to build more. So far, they have provided 70 000 hours of care through the cottages.

Mayor Peter Walker was also present at the official opening.

Mr Walker reflected on the sad state of an aging population and the need for care facilities but was glad to have such a personal and family-orientated facility built in Goulburn.

"They can build cottage six, seven, eight and nine here too," Mr Walker said.

ALSO READ: Probus Club elects new committee at annual general meeting

HammondCare cottages manager Evelyn O'Leary said what stood out about HammondCare cottages was the detailed assessments that were taken into account for each guest.

"We take into account everything, down to how many sugars you have in your tea, so it's all about you," Ms O'Leary said.

Goulburn resident John Hilldrop was one of the first guests to stay at Candlebark Cottage.

Mr Hilldrop, who retired early and travelled to England before moving back to Goulburn, had a stroke two years ago and lost use of right leg. Now his wife Shirley Hilldrop is caring for him.

Mrs Hilldrop said she had heard about the cottage after a friend gave her the brochure.

She used the time Mr Hilldrop stayed in the cottage to catch up on many things she wanted to do including shopping at Campbelltown.

Mr Hilldrop said he would absolutely recommend the cottage.

"The ladies were very helpful and the food was gorgeous.

"It was like living in a hotel," Mr Hilldrop said.

We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content: