Organised by Sapphire Coast Community Aged Care Group and sponsored by the Paynter Dixon Constructions it was a fundraiser for the upgrade of Hillgrove House – also known as the Bega and District Nursing Home.

“We are making a difference in the quality of aged care accommodation we provide in the Bega Valley to our Senior Citizens,” CEO Jim Butterworth said in his address to the crowd.  

“In the past 12 months we began Stage I construction, consisting of 47 single bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, lounge rooms, dining rooms, spacious lounge areas, outdoor walking gardens and verandas with some of the best views over parts of the Bega Valley.

“This project is our biggest ever, but please remember that we are not receiving any assistance in funding from either the state or federal governments.

“We are relying on the generosity of the individuals, and the community, clubs, organisations, associations and companies to partnership with us to assist us, assist others.”

Three cheques were presented on the night.

Alex Langworthy, representing the Lions Club of Bega, presented $5434 to the chair of the Bega and District Nursing Home, Phil Moffitt to pay for a Webster Medication Trolley and Invacare Patient Lifting Hoist.

John Mayne of Paynter Dixon Constructions presented his company’s donation of $10,000 which was the sponsorship of the ball.

Representing the Bega and District Nursing Home Auxiliary, Julie Alcock, Barbara Chambers, Betty Corby, Betty Rood and Helen Slater presented $140,000 to pay for all the window roller blinds and curtains, and seven Guldmann ceiling hoist systems.

In summing up, Mr Butterworth said everyone needed to remember the real reason they were there.

“We are in a care industry, travelling a path to ensure that our future senior citizens and their extended families are cared for with dignity in the way they deserve,” he said.