The Aussie spirit of helping others in times of need shone through this week when aged care providers in north west Sydney rallied together as the threat of bushfires became all too real.
Due to its location, residents of RSL LifeCare’s Rowland Village in Galston were moved to homes further away from potential danger.
Catholic Healthcare’s McQuoin Park in Wahroonga was happy to accommodate 15 residents for two nights until the catastrophic fire danger warning was lifted.
“We welcomed the residents on Monday night,” said Julie Farquhar, Residential Manager of McQuoin Park.
“Our Community Services team provided two buses to pick up the residents and bring them to McQuoin Park where we had set up 15 beds in our activities room. Our kitchen and catering personnel prepared supper on Monday night and meals for the next day and night. Our activities personnel provided music, games and DVD’s for the visiting residents.
“RSL LifeCare sent their own employees to support the residents for familiarity and stability. They were all lovely.
“We were only too happy to help. Quality care, compassion and kindness are who we are. While fortunately there was no fire, this experience has been a great dress rehearsal to test our capacity to deal with a crisis. In the event we are called upon to assist again, we know how effective we can be at short notice.”
Pictured: RSL LifeCare employees with Julie Farquhar, Residential Manager, McQuoin Park (far right)