25 September 2021

Dear Residents, Families and Friends,

Thank you for your support and patience as we continue to work together to keep our Doutta Galla Avondale Heights community COVID-19 safe.

Following a second round of COVID-19 testing at our Avondale Heights Home yesterday for residents and staff, I am pleased to advise that all tests have returned a negative result and residents remain symptom free.  On this basis we will return the Home to COVID-19 safe practices and visitor restrictions in line with Government Directions.

Residents will be able to move freely around the home again, enjoy meals in the dining room and participate in social and planned activities.  In line with the State Governments Care Directives, visitations can occur for end-of-life reasons and in special circumstances.

We know that the residents don’t enjoy being in their rooms however with the rising cases of the Delta variant of COVID-19 in Melbourne’s north-west, there are times when we need to take further precautions for residents’ protection. To support residents through these periods we have engaged additional staff to facilitate the Leisure and Lifestyle Program. We will do our upmost to keep residents engaged and comfortable and we encourage you to remain in touch.

Doutta Galla encourages you and any of your family members who are yet to be vaccinated to consider doing so. We’re doing every little bit to work towards safer access and reuniting you with loved ones. Being vaccinated will be important when the Care Directives allow visitations to aged care homes for those fully vaccinated.  You can click here to Book your vaccine appointment | Coronavirus Victoria.

For more support and advice during this time, please reach out to OPAN (Older Persons Advisory Network) on 1800 237 981 or Elder Rights Advocacy Victoria on 1800 171 866.  They are available 6am-10pm, 7 days a week.

Please contact the Home on 03 9325 0000 if you have any questions or concerns.  In addition, you are welcome to contact us via covid19questions@dgas.org.au.

Yours sincerely,

Vanda Iaconese

CEO