End of an era for Churches of Christ and Yapunyah Lodge, but the start for Queensland Health

Not-for-profit organisation Churches of Christ have chosen to cease residential aged care operations at Yapunyah Lodge in Cunnamulla by 31 December 2020. Churches of Christ have provided this service for the past 17 years and Council wishes to acknowledge and thank them for their commitment.

Queensland Health have agreed to take over the provision of aged care accommodation in Cunnamulla and provide the necessary facilities and staffing to meet that commitment.  

Paroo Shire Mayor, Cr Suzette Beresford acknowledged that the closure of Yapunyah Lodge is disappointing for the community.

“Yapunyah Lodge has been home for many of our town’s elders over the years, and it is sad to see it close.

“With Queensland Health taking over aged care services in Cunnamulla though, it keeps the option open for families to keep their parents and grandparents in Cunnamulla while being cared for.

“All current residents of Yapunyah Lodge will be accommodated at the hospital should they wish to continue residing in a care facility within Cunnamulla.”

Four self-contained bedrooms and an activities room are currently being constructed as part of the Cunnamulla Hospital complex and will be ready for occupancy in early 2021. This new aged care wing will be in addition to the existing four bed long stay ward currently incorporated within the Cunnamulla Hospital provided through Queensland Health.

The future use for the Yapunyah Lodge building, which is Council-owned, will now be discussed and consideration given to determine the most appropriate way of repurposing it for community-use.