Star of the Sea Elders Village celebrates official opening of new facilities

UnitingCare Chair, Nigel Alexander and Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch were joined by residents, employees and community members on Thursday Island to officially open the $24.83M redevelopment of the Star of the Sea Elders Village.

Nigel Alexander said the major redevelopment of the Elders Village was made possible through funding by the Australian Federal Government and is one of six UnitingCare facilities working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities.

“UnitingCare is committed to providing aged care services for people living in regional and remote communities.

“This redevelopment has not only enabled us to ensure elderly Australians living in remote communities have access to aged care services, it has been redeveloped with a strong focus on the needs of our residents and the community.

“In recognition of the cultural significance of the sea to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, the new ocean room, Kapa Milal Lag, and the viewing platform has been specifically designed to enable our residents to connect with the sea,” Mr Alexander said.

Warren Entsch, Federal Member for Leichhardt has a special connection with the Star of the Sea Elders Village, strongly lobbying the Federal Government to secure two significant government grants.

“This project has been something I have been extremely passionate about and it is warming to see our indigenous elders have access to the best care possible.

“I spearheaded the campaign, along with Sue Boysen, to secure the much-needed funding for this project. This project is something I am extremely proud to have delivered.

“This new building will enable the dedicated staff of BlueCare Star of the Sea to continue providing physical, emotional and spiritual support to people from Thursday Island and the Torres Strait,” Mr Entsch said.

Star of the Sea Elders Village is one of six aged care facilities operated by BlueCare’s Pinangba services—a brand of UnitingCare working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Queensland. Star of the Sea Elders Village provides care for 4500 people living in the Torres Strait Islands.

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