Proserpine nursing home faces community vote on transfer to Respect Aged Care

Proserpine Nursing Home, the town’s sole aged-care facility built with contributions from sugarcane farmers, the Rotary Club and community events, is set to be transferred to Respect Aged Care, a national provider based in Tasmania. Marie Dickens, chair of the management board, confirmed the agreement and said the transition could be in place by mid-December, with current staff offered continued employment and no cash changing hands.

The home operates as a registered charity governed by an association and a management committee, and the transfer requires approval from association members at a vote on September 7. Over 160 new applications to join the association have been received, while a petition opposing the sale has attracted hundreds of signatures. Local residents, union delegates and families expressed worries that external ownership could affect the home’s culture and care standards, though Respect’s chief executive Jason Binder emphasized a commitment to maintaining community value.