Cooee & Jack Towney Hostel Introduce Rapid Testing For Staff

Published on 30 August 2021

Gilgandra Lifestyles have commenced rapid antigen testing of staff prior to commencement of their shifts at Cooee and Jack Towney Hostels.

The tests, which give a result in just ten minutes, allow Gilgandra Lifestyles to provide assurance of the highest standard of resident care.

Council’s Director Community Services, Jo Manion says,

 “We are thankful that the Australian Government has made these kits available as part of its support to aged care services in the region.”

Manager Cooee Lodge Hostel, Narelle Rodway says it has been a successful implementation.

“Residents and families have a level of comfort in those staff looking after our aged care community in Gilgandra, and that all possible measures are being taken to protect our residents from risk.” 

Manager Jack Towney Hostel Del Gordon agrees,

“Staff have been enthusiastic to learn how to use and adopt the testing, particularly as COVID is active in the community, and it is an added confidence and great screening tool for staff in knowing they are safe to provide care.”

The rapid antigen testing will identify those who are infectious, even if they are not showing symptoms.

“The tests ensure that persons who may be Covid carriers or asymptomatic will be identified. While we have not had a positive rapid test to date, if a staff member did test positive in these rapid tests, they would then proceed immediately to the MPS to undergo the COVID test, and additional precautions be put into place,” said Ms Rodway.

The testing kits have been made available through the Australian Government to locations like Gilgandra, which has been identified as high-risk local government area.

For more information please visit https://www.health.gov.au/news/rapid-antigen-testing-in-aged-care, phone 6817 8800 or visit www.gilgandralifestyles.com.au/Connect/

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Contact:

Kathryn Larkin

Marketing & Communications Manager

02 6817 8800

enjoy@gilgandra.nsw.gov.au