Bupa moves in at Ballina

BALLINA’S new 120-room aged-care facility was this week officially renamed Bupa Ballina.

NAME CHANGE: Resident Nellie Whiteman at the unveiling of Bupa Ballina. Picture: Doug Eaton

BALLINA'S new 120-room aged-care facility was this week officially renamed Bupa Ballina.

Bupa Care Services Australia recently acquired Innovative Care's aged-care operations, and Ballina Community Aged Care was one of 10 homes purchased as part of the deal.

Bupa is now the country's largest private aged-care provider.

The state-of-the-art Ballina facility was opened in mid-2012.

Manager Pamela Osborne said staff and residents were looking forward to the home's next chapter.

"We are all very pleased to be part of Bupa Care Services Australia," Ms Osborne said.

"Bupa puts the care and happiness of our residents at the forefront of everything they do to ensure they live longer, healthier, happier lives."

To celebrate the home's name change this week, staff and residents held an official ceremony and relaunch, with everyone donning blue clothes, wigs and hats for the occasion.

The facility took more than three years to plan and build, and cost about $17 million. Each room has its own ensuite and residents have access to nurse calls and CCTV systems ensure safety.

"Providing this level of care means our residents can age in peace knowing they'll receive a continuity of care as their needs change," Ms Osborne said.