LAURINA LODGE
Aged care services are provided at Heyfield Hospital through Laurina Lodge, an aged care facility built in 1994 and extended in 2006.
​
Co located with Heyfield Hospital Inc. Laurina lodge offers transitional care, respite and permanent care.
​
In addition to all Aged care services, Residents have access to Heyfield Medical Centre located on-site.
​
Together with you and your family, we aim to assist you with your transition into residential care and welcome your participation in this process.
​
Our goal is to enable and empower all our residents and their families to engage in a lifestyle of their choice.
​
Your experience is important to us.
ABOUT US
BOARD OF MANAGEMENT​
RAELENE HANRATTY, CHAIR
Raelene has been a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors since July 2015. Raelene and her husband Dennis dairy farm at Upper Maffra West where they have raised 7 children. Raelene is dedicated to the local community and has held many executive committee positions on various organisations. She is currently the Deputy Chair of Southern Rural Water’s ‘Macalister Customer Consultative Committee’, the secretary of the Heyfield Tennis Club, and the treasurer of the Nambrok Newry Junior Football Club. Raelene is committed to ensuring that Heyfield Hospital and Laurina Lodge provide quality services to the Heyfield and District community. Appointed to the Board in 2015.
MARY MANESCU, VICE CHAIR
Mary holds a range of clinical nursing and senior leadership roles in the private and public health sector. She also worked extensively for the Department of Health (Victoria) in various areas including regulation, major capital works, performance and information management. Mary holds a Master of Health Services Management and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Beyond her substantive role, Mary is an accreditation surveyor with the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards Appointed to the board in 2024.
ANN WOOTTON
Ann has been in executive and general management since 1998. Ann’s career has been in professional services, firstly in Australian law firms in knowledge and operational management, moving to the compliance and risk management services industry in executive management roles. Her most recent executive role was in the Property services industry and as an executive director of a global risk management company. She has worked with clients from major Australian banks to Fortune 500 organisations globally. Ann was employed by SAI Global from 2000 – 2017, an ASX-200 public company until acquired by private equity and delisted in December 2016. For the majority of this time, Ann was in executive management positions in Australia and the USA. Firstly, as General Manager of the APAC Compliance Division, followed by President of the Americas Compliance Division. Ann was most recently the Director of the Property Division achieving significant year-on-year growth, with annual revenue in excess of $180m. Ann was also an Executive Director and member of EXCO of this global organisation. Ann has recently retired to Gippsland in country Victoria and is on a steep learning curve in developing a very different skills set! Ann has previously served on not-for-profit boards: The Governance Risk & Compliance Institute – a board representing the Compliance and Risk professional industry in Australia The Good Samaritan Board – a board overseeing an accommodation shelter in Melbourne for women and children who seek refuge from domestic violence Professionally, Ann is interested in non-executive Director roles in Victoria and NSW and consulting in her areas of expertise. Ann and her husband Morris Bellamy have formed a consulting partnership called Cretata Executives. Appointed to the Board in 2019.
PETER SKEELS
Peter has over 36 years’ experience in the provision of financial, commercial, and strategic advice within the utility and service provision industries. His past roles have included Financial Planning and Strategy, Chief Financial Officer and General Manager, Customer Services. Peter is currently employed with Gippsland Water where his substantive role is General Manager, Operations. In recent years, Peter has been extensively involved in the justification, financing, construction and delivery of the Gippsland Water Factory project, a $230m advanced wastewater treatment and recycling project located near Morwell, Victoria. Peter holds a Bachelor of Business, Monash University with majors in Accounting and Economics and is a Fellow of the Australian Society of Certified Practicing Accountants (FCPA). He has held the following voluntary appointments, Past Chairman, Gippsland Branch CPA 1998 – 2004, Director and Deputy Chairman, Gippsland Grammar School, Sale 2004 – 2013 and Director Heyfield Hospital Incorporated 2014 – present. Peter’s primary recreational interests revolve around scuba diving where he is recognised by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors as a Master Scuba Diver Trainer and with Technical Diving International as an Instructor. Appointed to the Board in 2014
JOHN SUNDERMANN
John was educated at Heyfield primary school and Gippsland Grammar, spending a semester at the University of Illinois in year 12. On finishing school, John has worked on the family farm at Heyfield running angus cattle stud, a poll Dorset sheep stud and a dairy farm. John has been President of the Catholic College (Sale) school Board, Secretary/Treasurer of the Seaton Fire Brigade, Secretary and Treasurer of the Heyfield Golf Club and a member of the Macalister Consultative Committee for Irrigators. Appointed to the Board in 2014.
RUSSELL MACQUEEN
Russell is a semi-retired Anglican Minister. He has been Rector of Orbost, Yarram and Maffra. He was also Archdeacon of East Gippsland and a Police Chaplain. In 2011 he retired from full time ministry and retrained in paramedics. He currently works for the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Victoria. Appointed to the Board in 2001.
SARAH CHRISTIAN
Sarah grew up in Heyfield and completed a Bachelor of Science at Melbourne University. After travelling overseas and working at the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children in London UK, she returned to Australia to complete a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery at Flinders University in Adelaide. Sarah completed her specialist training with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners in 2014. She enjoys teaching and also works part time for Eastern Victoria GP Training as a Medical Educator and Training Advisor. She is passionate about addressing the rural shortage of Doctors and medical services. Sarah has three beautiful children and loves spending time with her extended family. Appointed to the Board in 2017.
LIZ DRIFFIELD
Appointed to the Board in 2023.
GLEN WILLIAMSON
Since 2019, Glen has been a Commercial Executive looking after 7 small global businesses in the role of Chief Operations Officer for a private entrepreneur with a combined turnover of $50 million dollars, covering all facets of operations such as Risk Strategy, Mergers and Acquisitions and Financial Governance in industries as varied as Technology Hardware, Digital Software Services, Motor Sport and Meal Replacement Shakes across a multitude of geographies. Prior to that, Glen was a Global Procurement professional for more than 20 years. Glen brings experience across the Retail, Pharmacy Distribution, Not for Profit, Finance, IT, Facilities Management and Telecommunications Technology industries ns many times along the journey. Glen also has an interest in Mental Health and is currently studying to gain a Diploma of Counselling with the Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. Appointed as an observer in 2024.
DAVID GRAHAM
David was educated at Heyfield Primary and then Gippsland Grammar for his secondary years. After finishing year 12, he worked with a Timber Import/Export company in Melbourne for 4 years before returning to work in the family business. David has been Sole Director of Vern Graham Pty Ltd since July 2000. He served as a Board Member of Heyfield & District Community Financial Services for 11 years, including 3 years as Treasurer. Being a keen sportsman, David has served on committees of numerous local clubs and community organisations. Appointed as an observer in 2024.
LEADERSHIP TEAM
​
​Mark Dykgraaf, Chief Executive Officer
​
Caron Mallet, Director of Residential Aged Care
​
Rebecca Berry, Service Manager
OUR VISION, MISSION & VALUES
To add value to our community through high quality, flexible health and aged careservices tailored to meet our community’s needs.
In doing so we will:
-
Attract, retain and develop a vibrant and dynamic workforce within a framework ofmutual obligation;
-
Maintain our financial independence and long-term financial sustainability;
-
Provide high quality services that exceed, external quality and accreditationstandards; and
-
Develop innovative, exciting and relevant service delivery models that bothembrace and take advantage of regional partnerships, collaborative servicedelivery programs and funding opportunities,
To achieve our mission, we have identified four (4) independent priority areas:
-
Provision of disability support services;
-
Enhanced stakeholder engagement;
-
Retention of upskilled workforce; and
-
Provision of advanced aged care support.
In growing this community asset, we will:
-
Value our independence;
-
Act with honesty, transparency and integrity;
-
Strive for excellence in the quality of services we provide;
-
Place the community, our residents and patients at the center of what we do;
-
Be supportive and socially just in the provision of our services; and
-
Demonstrate through respect and mutual obligation the way we value our people.
ANNUAL REPORT
ROOM OPTIONS
SERVICES WE OFFER
RESPITE SERVICES
Laurina Lodge Aged Care provides respite care to eligible persons. Eligible persons are entitled to 9 weeks (63 nights) of respite per financial year.​
​
There are respite beds available which provide the same level of service as permanent care.
​
Fees and charges are as specified by the Department of Health & Ageing.
​
EMERGENCY RESPITE
Laurina Lodge Aged Care can at times support emergency respite depending on bed availability. We work closely with acute and community health services to support the needs of our aged population.
​
PERMANENT CARE
The facility offers care with ageing in place to meet the needs of the residents of Maffra District and beyond.
​
Laurina Lodge Wing Aged Care offers quality, individualised care to our residents. Staff are proud of our friendly, pleasant environment and the manner in which our residents are respected and supported.
​
Individualised personal care is planned and delivered through continued consultation and review of personal care needs and choices. Family consultation occurs regularly as indicated or requested.
​
Resident health and comfort is enhanced through the provision of more specialised care as indicated. This includes care such as physiotherapy, speech therapy, palliative care, dementia care, occupational therapy, wound management and more.
​
Residents can choose their doctor of choice in Maffra from either of two local clinics. This needs to be confirmed prior to admission. Local Medical support ensures 24 hour, 7 day per week access to a GP for emergency and also periodic review as indicated. All resident medication must be presented in Webster packs (Unit Dose 7).
​
Resident lifestyle is supported through our Diversional Therapist and volunteer team who offer various activities, events and personal programs to support individual and groups of residents.
​
All permanent rooms include the following –
​
-
Comfortable bed, lockable bedside drawers
-
24 hour call bell in main room and ensuite, and emergency bell
-
All food/drinks provided (meals in room or communal dining area as per resident choice)
-
Meal choice includes at least three options
-
Evening happy hour
-
Inclusion in Lifestyle and Leisure Program
-
Community bus pick up and drop off at front door twice weekly
-
Emergency Medical care (choice of local GP clinic to be arranged prior to admission)
-
Laundry and housekeeping services
-
Peaceful outside secure garden areas, barbeque and gazebo
-
Raised vegetable and flower beds
-
Church and other services e.g. RSL​
​
PALLIATIVE CARE
Our Palliative Care partnership with CGH is deeply committed to providing compassionate palliative care that focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life for our residents. Our experienced and caring team works closely with families to ensure that each individual’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are met during this important stage of life. We create a peaceful and supportive environment where residents receive personalised care tailored to their specific wishes and preferences.
​
With a holistic approach to palliative care, we strive to make each moment meaningful, offering not only expert medical care but also emotional support for both residents and their families. Your loved ones will receive the utmost respect, care, and attention during their time with us.
​
DEMENTIA CARE
We are dedicated to providing exceptional dementia care that enhances the lives of our residents while supporting their families. Our approach is centred around understanding each individual’s unique needs and creating a safe, nurturing environment that promotes independence and well-being.
​
We prioritise meaningful engagement through specialised activities and tailored care plans, ensuring that our residents feel valued and understood at every stage of their journey. In addition, we are committed to ongoing education for all our staff, ensuring they are equipped with the latest knowledge and best practices in dementia care. Through continuous training, we empower our team to offer the highest standard of care, fostering a compassionate and supportive atmosphere for both residents and their families.
​
ALLIED HEALTH
We are proud to partner with a wide range of allied health services at CGH to deliver comprehensive and tailored care to our community. Our collaboration includes expert Physiotherapists, skilled Allied Health Assistants, qualified Dietitians, Exercise Therapists, Podiatrists, and Foot Care specialists, as well as Speech Pathologists.
​
Together, we work to support the holistic health and well-being of our patients, providing integrated treatment plans that address a variety of needs. Whether residents are recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or striving to improve your overall health, our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and maintain a high quality of life.
​
GERONTOLOGY
We are proud to partner with the experienced team of gerontologists at Central Gippsland Health (CGH) to provide exceptional care for our residents. This collaboration ensures that our residents benefit from specialised expertise in aging and geriatric health.
​
By working closely with CGH’s gerontologists, we are able to offer personalised care plans that address the unique needs of each individual, including managing complex health conditions and promoting overall well-being. Our partnership enhances the quality of care, ensuring that residents receive the best possible support from a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to improving their health and quality of life.
​
RESIDENTIAL INREACH
Better@Home services aim to deliver more specialised care closer to home and in the persons setting of choice.
​
As one of the Better@Home services, Residential In Reach provides specialist assessment services by a Nurse Consultant, to people living in Residential Aged Care Facilities, which in turn, prevents avoidable presentations to the Hospital Emergency Department.
​
Residential In Reach Nurse Consultants may visit and provide this specialist care; which is done in partnership with the Facility staff and the persons own General Practitioner. It is a team approach to supporting care in that persons’ setting of choice – Better@Home!
​
If the person requires hospital admission, this decision is made with the person and their care team.
​
Residential In Reach is NOT an emergency service.
​
TELEHEALTH
We embrace innovative solutions to enhance the care we provide to our residents, including the use of telehealth services. This technology allows us to connect residents with specialist healthcare professionals remotely, ensuring timely consultations and ongoing medical support without the need for travel.
​
Telehealth enables our team to coordinate care more efficiently, access expert advice, and provide residents with a higher level of healthcare, all while maintaining their comfort and convenience.
​
By integrating telehealth into our services, we are able to offer a seamless, comprehensive care experience that prioritises both the health and well-being of our residents.
​
WOUND CARE
We are fortunate to partner with the skilled Wound Care Nurses at Central Gippsland Health (CGH) to provide specialised care for residents with wound management needs. This collaboration ensures that our residents receive the highest level of expertise and attention for the treatment and prevention of wounds, including chronic and complex conditions.
​
The CGH Wound Care Nurses work closely with our care team to develop personalised care plans, using the latest techniques and best practices to promote healing and improve comfort. Through this partnership, we are able to deliver comprehensive, compassionate care that supports the health and well-being of our residents every step of the way.
​
CONTINENCE NURSES
We are proud to partner with the expert Continence Nurses at Central Gippsland Health (CGH) to provide specialised support for residents with continence care needs. This collaboration ensures that our residents receive personalised, professional care designed to enhance comfort, dignity, and quality of life.
​
The CGH Continence Nurses work alongside our team to assess, manage, and implement the most effective care strategies, tailoring solutions to each individual’s needs. By combining the latest knowledge and best practices in continence care, we are able to offer a respectful and supportive environment where residents can thrive with confidence and peace of mind.
​
DIABETES SPECIALISTS
We are proud to collaborate with the Diabetes Specialists at Central Gippsland Health (CGH) to ensure our residents with diabetes receive the highest standard of care. This partnership allows us to offer personalised management plans tailored to each resident’s unique needs, helping to monitor and control blood sugar levels effectively.
​
The Diabetes Specialists work closely with our care team to provide ongoing support, education, and guidance, empowering our residents to lead healthier, more comfortable lives. By integrating their expertise into our care approach, we ensure that residents with diabetes receive comprehensive, compassionate care that supports their overall well-being.
​
INFECTION PREVENTION
We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of health and safety for our residents, which is why we partner closely with the Infection Prevention team at Central Gippsland Health (CGH). This valuable collaboration ensures that we are equipped with the latest knowledge and practices to prevent and manage infections effectively.
The CGH Infection Prevention team supports us in key areas such as immunisation, outbreak management, and ongoing staff education, ensuring our team is well-trained in infection control measures. Together, we work to create a safe, healthy environment where our residents receive the best possible care, minimising the risk of infections and promoting overall well-being.
LEISURE AND LIFESTYLE
We are dedicated to providing Leisure and Lifestyle Activities that promote social engagement, physical well-being, and emotional fulfillment for all of our residents. Our diverse program is designed to cater to a wide range of interests and abilities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate and enjoy activities that are both fun and meaningful.
RESIDENT-CENTRED APPROACH
We understand that every resident is unique, and we place great emphasis on including them in the planning and development of our activities program. Through regular consultations and feedback sessions, we ensure that our activities reflect the current interests, preferences, and needs of our residents. Whether it’s a new hobby, a group outing, or an event that celebrates personal milestones, we value their input and strive to create experiences that are both enjoyable and fulfilling.
​
MONTHLY ACTIVITY CALENDAR
To keep everyone informed and engaged, we provide a Monthly Activity Calendar, offering a clear overview of upcoming events, classes, and recreational activities. From arts and crafts to music therapy, fitness sessions, and group games, our calendar is packed with exciting opportunities to keep residents entertained and active. By giving residents advance notice of planned activities, they can look forward to participation, connect with others, and feel more involved in the community.
​
INCLUSIVE AND ENGAGING ACTIVITIES
Our Leisure and Lifestyle program includes a variety of activities designed to suit all abilities and preferences. We offer something for everyone, including:
​
-
Creative Activities: Art, crafts, and music sessions that allow residents to express themselves.
-
Physical Activities: Gentle exercise classes, walking groups, and games designed to improve mobility and fitness.
-
Social Events: Movie nights, themed parties, and community outings that encourage socialisation and connection.
-
Wellness Activities: Meditation, mindfulness, and relaxation sessions to promote mental and emotional well-being.
​
We believe in creating a vibrant, interactive environment where residents are supported in living a full and enriched life. Through our Leisure and Lifestyle Activities Program, we ensure that everyone feels valued, included, and engaged in their daily routines. With a focus on inclusion and resident feedback, we strive to make every day enjoyable and meaningful for each of our residents.
FOOD, DINING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
We provide exceptional hospitality services designed to enhance the well-being and comfort of residents within aged care facilities. Our comprehensive services include Kitchen Services and Environmental Services, ensuring that every aspect of our residents’ daily experience is carefully considered and thoughtfully managed.
​
KITCHEN SERVICES
Our dedicated kitchen team works tirelessly to deliver nutritious, and delicious meals tailored to the unique dietary needs and preferences of each resident. We actively engage with residents through regular feedback sessions and consultations to ensure that the meals we provide reflect their individual tastes and current needs. By fostering a collaborative approach, we aim to create a dining experience that not only nourishes but also brings joy to every resident.
​
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
We understand the importance of a clean, safe, and comfortable living environment. Our Environmental Services team maintains a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene across all areas, ensuring that residents feel secure and relaxed in their surroundings. From regular cleaning to maintaining common spaces, our team is committed to creating an environment that promotes both physical health and emotional well-being.
​
We are dedicated to providing hospitality services that are compassionate, responsive, and reflective of the diverse needs of the aged care community. Every detail is important to us, and we work with residents and their families to ensure their satisfaction and comfort at every step of the way.
GARDENING AND MAINTENANCE
We believe in creating a warm and welcoming environment that promotes both comfort and well-being for our residents. Our Gardening and Maintenance Services are designed to foster a homely atmosphere and encourage outdoor engagement, allowing residents to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of nature right at their doorstep.​
​
GARENING SERVICES
​Our professional gardening team takes pride in maintaining lush, vibrant outdoor spaces that are not only visually appealing but also safe and accessible for all residents. We offer regular gardening services to ensure that the grounds are always well-kept, with seasonal pruning and care tailored to create a serene and inviting atmosphere. By carefully cultivating beautiful gardens, we provide residents with an opportunity to relax, socialise, and connect with nature in a peaceful setting.
​
MAINTENANCE SERVICES
To ensure that our facilities remain safe, comfortable, and functional, our maintenance team provides regular upkeep and prompt repairs throughout the site. From routine checks to addressing specific needs, our team is dedicated to keeping everything in excellent condition, so residents can enjoy their home without worry. Whether it’s ensuring accessible pathways or maintaining common areas, we’re committed to fostering a space that enhances daily living and promotes peace of mind.
​
PROMOTING OUTDOOR USE
We understand how important it is for residents to enjoy the outdoors and stay active. Our beautifully maintained garden areas are designed with accessibility and comfort in mind, offering plenty of spaces for leisurely walks, gardening activities, or simply enjoying the fresh air. We encourage residents to make the most of these outdoor areas, whether it’s by hosting social events, participating in gardening activities, or simply relaxing in the peaceful surroundings.
Our Gardening and Maintenance Services help create a harmonious living environment where residents feel at home, connected to nature, and able to enjoy the outdoors every day.