Ardrossan joins the Walara family, securing local aged care for future generations
Aged care affects everyone sooner or later – parents, grandparents, neighbours and friends will need support one day, and we want that care to feel safe, familiar and connected to the community they’ve lived in their whole lives.
That’s why this next step from Walara means so much.
The Balaklava-based, not-for-profit provider has officially welcomed Ardrossan Seaview Residential Aged Care into its organisation, securing the future of locally run aged care on the Upper Yorke Peninsula.
Board Chair, Malcolm May said the goal was simple – continuity, stability and community ownership.
“It means the very important provision of community run not-for-profit residential aged care services for Ardrossan and the north-east corner of the Yorke Peninsula can continue for the existing residents, where our goal is that there is no change to what they have been used to.”
“We want to ensure many more residents and local families into the future will benefit from Walara Ardrossan Seaview.”
The redevelopment is a major win for the region. Backed by Federal Government capital funding, the site will grow from 33 to 40 beds, with 16 new rooms built and the old hospital wing replaced with modern, purpose-built spaces. Construction starts mid-2026, with completion expected late 2027.
Aged care that feels like home
CEO Rob Veitch says the upgrades matter, but it’s the feeling inside each Walara home that people notice first.
“When residents and families walk into a Walara home, the first thing they notice is the sense of belonging. It’s more than bricks and mortar, it’s a community where people are known by name, where care feels personal and genuine.”
“Our homes reflect the values of country living, warmth, connection and respect. Beyond the upgrades and modern facilities, what stands out is the atmosphere, conversations that matter, and a culture that celebrates independence while offering support.”
That culture doesn’t happen by accident.
It’s been shaped by years of passionate Board members, former Board representatives (now Ambassadors), staff, and community members who refused to let aged care in their towns fade away. Walara’s entire existence is built on local people stepping up when aged care in each of their communities faced hard times.
Malcolm says that spirit continues today.
“After four separate near-death experiences in four different towns over the last five years, we’re now in a position where we have four wonderful Walara Residential Aged Care Facilities… plus retirement villages in Balaklava and Riverton, and units in Saddleworth.
Rob added,
“Our staff and their culture of always putting their residents first – the heart of country care – that’s what I’m most proud of.”
Community first, across every town
Across all towns, Walara works hard to keep that small-community feel as they grow.
Rob said their approach focuses on staying connected.
“We keep strong community ties through regular updates to our Walara Ambassadors, residents, families and staff. We keep our messaging uniform, but we celebrate the differences between each of the four locations.”
“Expansion doesn’t mean losing our roots. It means strengthening them by building trust, listening to feedback, and ensuring every Walara home feels like home.”
Behind the scenes, Walara is continuing to invest heavily in regional aged care. In Balaklava, new staff accommodation is helping attract and keep skilled workers. Hamley Bridge has a major accommodation project on the way that will later transition into independent-living options for the community. Meanwhile, Gilbert Valley is only weeks away from the completion of a $6.8 million refurbishment that lifts comfort, capacity and quality of life for residents.
With Ardrossan now part of the mix, Walara’s footprint spans the Lower North and Upper Yorke Peninsula – and their vision remains clear – aged care that feels local, grounded and genuine. And it’s all thanks to a handful of people who believed their towns deserved better.
For more on Walara’s projects and updates, visit walara.au
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