Inspecting the new $100,000 generator at Uralla’s McMaugh Gardens Aged Care Centre, Mayor Michael Pearce, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, General Manager Kate Jessep and McMaugh Gardens Aged Care Manager Christine Valencius.
Thursday, 11 February 2021
A NEW generator at Uralla’s McMaugh Gardens Aged Care Centre will ensure the health and safety of residents is maintained during power outages or emergency situations, with work now complete on the installation of the $100,000 State Government-funded permanent power supply.
Uralla Shire Council received the grant last year through Round 3 of the NSW Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall recently inspected the emergency backup generator, which he said would provide sufficient supply for essential care services at the facility when needed.
“While losing the lights in a black-out is inconvenient, for those living in aged care the loss of power to important medical devices can be dangerous and life-threatening,” Mr Marshall said.
“To stop the power going out at McMaugh Gardens, Uralla Shire Council has installed a single 200 KVA emergency backup generator and switchboard, complete with cabling, automatic transfer switch and controls.
“This means residents dependent on oxygen concentrators, Continuous Positive Air Pressure devices, alternating pressure air mattresses, height adjustable electric beds and adjustable electric chairs will be able to use these devices without interruption.
“This generator gives peace of mind to family members that in the event of a power outage the health and safety of their vulnerable loved ones will not be impacted.”
Uralla Shire Mayor Michael Pearce said the generator would allow McMaugh Gardens’ staff to continue providing essential care, meals, and laundry services without interruption.
“The new generator will provide increased safety and security in the event of any power disruption, and increases the capacity of care we are able to provide our residents,” Cr Pearce said.
“Having an appropriately-sized emergency backup power supply means that the facility will maintain its heating or cooling systems during a power outage and facility staff can provide essential services to residents without interruption.”