Update #166 – General Update

27 October 2023

Dear Residents, Family and Friends,

The gastroenteritis outbreak in the Hill is officially over so the Hill has opened their doors. Please continue to be vigilant in following good hand hygiene, social distancing and infection control practices, as there are lots of communicable illnesses such as covid, influenza and RSV happening in the community currently.  It is still vital that if you or a family member are unwell, that you test and report any cases of Covid and other infectious respiratory diseases to us. Please don’t visit if unwell or Covid Positive or if you have been in contact with a Covid positive person in the last seven days. Thank you for your assistance, it is very much appreciated.

Current guidelines at Maroba

For Residents

  • Residents only undergo a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) when they are symptomatic.

For Visitors

  • Wearing masks is now optional for visitors; there is no longer a requirement to wear a mask while visiting Maroba.
  • For those visiting daily, we kindly request RAT testing every 48 hours. If you visit less frequently, please RAT test before each visit. Keep a photo of your RAT test on your phone as proof if required. Free RAT kits are available at our reception, please feel free to take some home to test before your visit.
  • No longer any restrictions on the number of visitors. You are welcome to use common areas, dine and drink while visiting, and even enjoy a meal with your loved one (we’ll set you up at a table together).
  • There are no visiting hours however for the safety of our residents the doors are locked from sundown until sunset. During these times visitors access is by pressing the call button at the entrance, so a staff member is aware of your arrival and can let you in.  Dinner commences around 5.00pm and after dinner residents are usually settling in for the night.   Arrangements can be made with staff if you are taking your loved one out during these hours to have easy access on your return.
  • Check in using the Cool Gard System is no longer

For Staff, Volunteers, Contractors, Agency Staff & Students

  • Masks are now optional, and surgical masks will be available on-site for anyone wishing to wear one.
  • Our staff, volunteers, and students will RAT test before returning to Maroba after days off or when symptomatic. Contractors and Agency Staff will continue to RAT test each time before coming onsite at Maroba.
  • Volunteers, Contractors, Agency Staff, and Students will continue to check in using our CoolGard System.

On another note, after 3 months away on Monday 30 October, we welcome Viv, our CEO back to the helm.  We can’t wait to hear about all Viv’s adventures and experiences she has had.  All the executives have appreciated the opportunity to step into the CEO’s role and support our Maroba Community.  It has been a privilege to serve and support everybody during this time.

If you have concerns with our approach, please call us to discuss. Alternatively, you can contact:

  • Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) on 1800 700 600
  • The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission on 1800 951 822
  • Senior Rights Service 1800 424 079

For additional information, please contact reception at 4935 0300 during office hours or email us at enquiries@maroba.om.au.

Warm Regards,

Tracy Walker

General Manager Operations (in Viv CEO’s absence)

2023.10.26 #166 October update