Southern Cross Care (Vic) Appoints New Manager for its Kingston Homes

Following a public tender process, leading aged care provider Southern Cross Care (Vic) is taking over management of Kingston Council’s three residential aged care homes and the independently operated Mordialloc Community Nursing Home, commencing late February 2016.

The not-for-profit provider has appointed Judy Kelly as the new manager of the Kingston homes. Judy will be supported by a Care Manager at each home and will commence in her role in February. The transition of the homes – Northcliffe Lodge, Nixon Hostel, Corben House, and Mordialloc Community Nursing Home – to Southern Cross Care, is well underway and expected to be completed in mid-April.

Ms Kelly currently manages Southern Cross Care’s aged care home in Lynbrook.  In her new role, Ms Kelly will also be involved in the construction of a new state-of-the-art home in Mentone.  Residents of the four homes will have the opportunity to move in to the new home when it is ready in late 2018. 

Kingston Council CEO, John Nevins, said the transition of Council’s residential homes into the care and management of Southern Cross Care was going smoothly.

“Council is pleased that our elderly residents will be cared for by such an experienced, award-winning not-for-profit group and in years to come be able to enjoy this care in a new purpose built home within the heart of Mentone,” he said.

Southern Cross Care (Vic) CEO, Jan Horsnell, said the organisation has been serving older Victorians since 1969 and consistent with its philosophy, will ensure that elderly residents in the City of Kingston continue to receive the highest quality of care and support.

“We are delighted with the opportunity to provide quality residential aged care in Kingston.  Judy’s vast experience in managing aged care homes and supporting the individual needs of residents and families will assist us to provide holistic support and the best lives possible to older people in the community,” said Ms Horsnell.  “Her proven ability in strategic management and quality accreditations are highly regarded and we are thereby well placed to build a strong future in Kingston.”

Ms Kelly has over 16 years of aged care management experience, and has been involved in the design and building of several new aged care homes and the refurbishment of existing buildings, including two of Southern Cross Care’s existing homes.

Ms Kelly joined Southern Cross Care in 2010 as Manager of its Lynbrook home.  Well known for her person-centred approach, she is also committed to developing a staff culture focussed on values, inclusiveness, trust and respect.

On her new appointment, Ms Kelly said, “I feel very privileged and look forward to working with and supporting the residents, their families and staff during the transitional period, and building a sustainable relationship with them.”

Click here to find out more about Southern Cross Care (Vic)'s residential aged care and home care services.