Aged care group Juniper announce acquisition of Waratah Lodge in Wagin

Ownership of the Waratah Lodge in Wagin has changed hands after age care group Juniper announced the acquisition of the clinic at the end of last month. Aiming to enhance the well-being of senior citizens in rural areas, Juniper seized the opportunity to take ownership of the Wagin facility from October 1. Waratah Lodge becomes the fourth regional facility in Juniper’s possession, joining Katanning and Albany as branches within the Great Southern. Juniper CEO Russell Bicknell said it’s becoming increasingly pivotal for older people in rural areas to receive satisfactory support. “We understand the importance of providing older people with the opportunity to continue living in their communities, close to family, friends, and familiar surroundings,” Mr Bicknell said. “Our acquisition of Waratah Lodge in Wagin is a testament to this commitment. “We believe that every older person deserves compassionate and high-quality care, regardless of where they call home.” Mr Bicknell said the new acquisition came after evaluating the future needs of elderly people in the Great Southern and Wheatbelt regions. “We did some population forecasting for the next 15 to 20 years and there’s a growing need for aged care in that region,” he said. “In Wagin and Katanning we offer home aged care services and operate home care services across the Wheatbelt and Great Southern.” Having successfully acquired Wagin as their fourth regional facility, Mr Bicknell emphasised that adaptability and flexibility will remain paramount in future program development. “We’re going to have to have a variety of models because the traditional models don’t always work,” he said. “I think at the end of the day, there’s going to need to be changes in regional locations and we’re keen to partner with anyone who is interested in partnering.”