LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Re: Future-Proofing Aged Care Services for Magnetic Island Residents

Magnetic Island Community Care is the island's largest provider of aged care, having served our residents for 28 years.

On 31 October 1997, George Hirst reported on the election of the First Management Committee. Since then, dozens of community members have volunteered their time and worked tirelessly to grow the organisation from a cottage industry into the respected provider we know today, and we value this long-standing commitment to our community.

In this time, Magnetic Island Community Care has seen many changes; however, its mission has always remained the same: to provide the island's aged care residents with the support necessary to remain in their homes and on our beautiful island for as long as possible.

According to the last census, more than 800 residents over the age of 65 currently live on Magnetic Island. Looking to the future, the number of people over the age of 80 is projected to exceed 200 by the year 2030. This growth is a testament to the quality of life here, but it demands forward-thinking solutions.

To ensure that aged care continues to be provided for both our current and expected future residents, and to proudly bridge the gap in service provision compared to the mainland, the Management Committee has made the strategic decision to partner with COMLINK Australia in the delivery of Home Care Package service delivery. COMLINK is a respected not-for-profit organisation with more than 35 years’ experience supporting older Australians and the local community, and they share our island-focused values.

COMLINK Australia brings significant expertise in transitioning aged care and community services, having successfully partnered with providers across Cairns, Bundaberg, and South-East Qld. Their experience is exactly what we need to elevate our services to the next level.

COMLINK’s mission is to pioneer a new way forward for what it means to age well in Australia. Through the delivery of exceptional client experiences, personalised services that enable maximum independence in the home, and strong connections to local communities, we are confident this partnership will future-proof the provision of aged care services for our Island.

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is working with MI Care to identify a partner for the transition of our CHSP clients. We will continue to work with this organisation as well as Comlink to ensure a seamless transition.

We want to assure the community that the care structure you know and trust will continue. Our local staff will remain in their current roles and continue to be a cherished part of our clients' lives. Our focus, strengthened by this partnership, will continue to be on supporting clients to remain comfortably, safely, and independently in their homes for longer.

This is an exciting step for Magnetic Island Community Care and for our entire community. We are thrilled to embark on this partnership with COMLINK Australia and look forward to our aging community having an even brighter future.

Yours sincerely,

The Management Committee

Magnetic Island Community Care Inc.