06 July 2022

Stage Two of Two Henry Road has been officially opened, with six more independent living units available to support older residents to remain living in the Irwin community.

Shire of Irwin President Mike Smith was joined by the Hon Sandra Carr MLC, Member for the Agricultural Region who was representing the Hon Amber-Jade Sanderson MLA Minister for Health and Mental Health, and WACHS Midwest Regional Director Rachel Ferarri to officially open the new units. Shire of Irwin CEO Shane Ivers, Councillors Hayley Palmer and Barry Wyse, and existing and future tenants were also in attendance.

Stage Two of the Two Henry Road project was the result of a collaboration between the Shire of Irwin and the WA Country Health Service.

Two Henry Road is an independent living community, designed to meet the needs of seniors and support aging in place. The project forms part of the WACHS $26 million Residential and Dementia Investment Strategy.

The facility features dementia friendly design and is located opposite the Dongara Health Service, Accident and Emergency Department and visiting allied health rooms.

Shire of Irwin President Mike Smith said the units, which have been designed to be age and dementia friendly, have been awarded platinum certification by Liveable Housing Australia. The highest standard for dementia friendly and age-friendly design.

“These units have been designed to allow people to age in place and remain independent in our community for as long as possible,” Cr Smith explained.

“This design and being located near essential health services are the key to the success and suitability of these units. The Shire of Irwin is so pleased to be able to offer our older community members this alternative.”

“I also need to recognise the extraordinary team at Nordic Builders, whose work on this project has been nothing short of tremendous.”

The first six Two Henry Road independent units were officially opened by Shire President, Mike Smith in September 2020.