THE Inglewood community celebrated the grand re-opening of the refurbished Casa Mia independent living aged-care facility at the weekend, with five newly refurbished independent living units ensuring more vulnerable elderly people have the opportunity to remain in Inglewood.

Queensland Minister for Housing, Sam O’Connor, joined Goondiwindi Regional Council mayor Lawrence Springborg to officially open the five newly refurbished independent living units.

Cr Springborg unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion – and the start of a new chapter of aged-care in Inglewood.

“This milestone is the culmination of more than four years of work and commitment to this project,” Ct Springborg said.

“It has been a long road, but today we can celebrate a facility that truly supports the independence and dignity of our elderly residents.”

The $2.65 million total redevelopment of Casa Mia includes a $1.5 million contribution from the Queensland Government’s Housing Investment Fund.

The remaining cost to Council will be offset and minimised by rental income and revenue opportunities from the remaining land.

Minister Sam O’Connor, mayor Lawrence Springborg, James Lister, Aspect Architects, ICM Construction and members of the Inglewood Aged Care steering committee cutting the ribbon.

Minister O’Connor expressed his pride in the project and the positive impact it will have on the community.

“It’s been wonderful to visit Inglewood today and see firsthand the incredible community spirit behind this redevelopment,” Mr O’Connor said.

“This project is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision.

“These newly refurbished units will provide safe, affordable, and independent living options for elderly residents, ensuring they can continue to call Inglewood home with dignity and security,” he said.

“The Crisafulli Government is here to work with councils to deliver the support and infrastructure our regional communities need to thrive.”

The opening ceremony was followed by a community morning tea and open walk-throughs of the new one- and two-bed units.

Cr Springborg thanked the Inglewood Aged Care steering committee, established to explore potential models of care to be provided at the facility after the Churches of Christ in Queensland closed the doors of the original Casa Mia Inglewood Aged Care Service in 2020.

In consultation with the local community, the committee decided the best solution was to deliver independent living, or supported accommodation for elderly residents, rather than the high-care model previously offered at the site, which was not viable.

“The dedication and commitment of the committee members was absolutely essential to getting where we are today,” Cr Springborg said.

“We are also immensely grateful to the Queensland Government for its support of this project.”

Tenancy applications for Casa Mia are now open.

As the project is funded by the Queensland Government, it is subject to state government conditions regarding rental value and eligible tenancy.

For more information, visit: https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/Residents/Community/Housing