Three Tree Lodge marked the official commencement of its long-anticipated expansion project with a Turning of the Sod Ceremony on Wednesday, 22 May. The event brought together a large gathering of residents, staff, board members, and special guests in celebration of a significant milestone for the aged care facility.
The ceremony was led by Three Tree Lodge Chairman Garry Brown, who welcomed guests and acknowledged the contributions of key stakeholders. “Today’s ceremonial sod turning gave us the opportunity to share the excitement of the commencement of this build and to thank the many people, including our local Member Andrew Gee MP, the Mayor Cass Coleman, the General Manager and staff at Lithgow City Council, along with our own consultants and staff, led by our CEO Kate Hurrell, who have made this project possible,” Mr Brown said.
Guests looked on as local MP Andrew Gee, Three Tree Lodge’s Kate Hurrell and Garry Brown as well as Lithgow Mayor Cassandra Coleman joined long-term resident Alan Amos to officially turn the first sod, symbolising the beginning of construction.
The project includes two significant extensions to the facility. Wattle House will be expanded to include seven new beds, while Melaleuca House, which specialises in care for people living with dementia, will receive an additional four beds. These expansions will allow Three Tree Lodge to further enhance its capacity and support for older people in the Lithgow region.
In true Three Tree Lodge tradition, the occasion was also celebrated with an impressive spread of food prepared by the in-house catering team. Catering Coordinator Richard created a special centrepiece cake for the event, complete with miniature construction equipment and even a model snake, much to the delight of attendees.
Thanks were extended to the entire Three Tree Lodge team, whose efforts in preparing the event ensured a warm and welcoming atmosphere for residents and guests alike.
With works now officially underway, the team at Three Tree Lodge looks forward to sharing progress updates as the expansion project develops over the coming months.