Kyabram Community Bank generously donated to Kyabram District Health Service so it could purchase a new van for its aged care residents. Bank branch manager Mel Roberts cut the ribbon with Sheridan resident Raelene Dunn.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
Residents of Sheridan Aged Care are set to rediscover the freedom of the open road, thanks to a heartwarming community effort that made their new bus a reality.
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The new fleet vehicle, a nine-seat van, was unveiled at a celebration on Wednesday, November 12, with residents, family members, Kyabram District Health Service board members and special guests.
Cutting the ribbon to the side door of the van was branch manager for Kyabram Community Bank Mel Roberts and Sheridan resident Raelene Dunn, who said this was a project residents had eagerly awaited.
“It's going to mean a lot to us,” Ms Dunn said.
“It's going to give us a lot of pleasure, a lot of fun, and we're looking forward to the outings once again. Thank you to those people for their generous donations.”
Raelene Dunn says the van means a lot to the residents.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
Kyabram Community Bank donated $12,000 towards the $72,000 vehicle, with the rest coming from private donors.
Ms Roberts said projects such as this exemplified what the bank’s system represented — strengthening and supporting the Kyabram community.
The van's accessibility is a key feature — any staff member or volunteer with a standard car licence can drive it, ensuring residents never miss out on planned outings.
KDHS chief executive Anne McEvoy said it had been a five-year journey, which started when two residents requested a bus be made available for residents to go outside.
“Having this bus will be life-changing for Sheridan residents, giving them real access to community life,” Ms McEvoy said.
“It’s about social connection, health and wellbeing, and the simple joy of being part of things.”
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