New Rupanyup Nursing Home Wing Officially Opens

West Wimmera Health Service (WWHS) is proud to mark the official opening of the new wing at its Rupanyup Nursing Home, delivering a significant investment in aged care for the local community.

Developed as the first stage of a broader masterplan for the Cromie Street site, the new seven-bed wing has been thoughtfully designed in partnership with EBD Architects to support residents to live with comfort, dignity, and independence.

The purpose-built extension includes a modern kitchen and dining space, a quiet lounge, outdoor patio, and an accessible garden complete with an open-air pavilion.

CEO of West Wimmera Health Service, Ritchie Dodds, said the opening represents an important milestone in strengthening local aged care services.

“This new wing reflects our commitment to providing great care to every person, every time. It has been designed with our residents, families, and staff in mind, creating a welcoming and supportive space that feels like home.”

Lead Architect at EBD Architects, Darragh O'Brien, said the design of the new wing was carefully developed to support people living with dementia and cognitive decline.

“The design was guided by a strong focus on creating a calming, home-like environment, supported by intuitive wayfinding and an abundance of natural light.”

The new wing adopts a familiar ‘home-style’ layout, welcoming residents and visitors into a central kitchen and dining space from a bright, double-height foyer. This design encourages connection, with residents able to take part in everyday activities such as cooking, spend time in shared living areas, and enjoy access to landscaped outdoor spaces.

Each bedroom has been designed to meet residents’ individual needs, featuring private ensuites, garden views, and individually adjustable heating, cooling, and lighting to enhance comfort and wellbeing.

A quiet lounge at the end of the corridor provides a low-stimulation environment for residents, along with a private outdoor area for visits with family and friends.

Importantly, the design has been shaped through a series of co-design sessions with residents, staff, and community members, ensuring the final space reflects the needs and values of those who will use it.

A current Rupanyup Nursing Home resident, Janice Graham, expressed their overwhelming delight with the new wing, describing it as a welcoming and uplifting space.

“I really like my room. The big window is wonderful. I can look outside and see the plants, birds and people going by. It makes me feel connected and relaxed.”

WWHS Board Chair, Gary Simpson, said the collaborative approach was key to achieving a high-quality outcome.

“This project is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when we work together with our community. The result is a warm, inviting environment that supports both quality care and meaningful connection.”

The completion of the new wing marks the first stage of ongoing redevelopment at the Rupanyup site, with future stages planned to further enhance services for the local community.

This project has been made possible through Victorian Government grant funding, complemented by the generous support of the local community including the Dunmunkle Health Service Foundation, former resident Linda Graham and numerous community members.