2010 - 2011
Negotiations with government and conditions to satisfy the Uniting Church Property Trust proved more tortuous than expected , resulting in a lengthy Operation Deed and a sublease on the land as well as the usual constraints of a development application . Agreement was eventually reached in September 2010 and Tenders were called , but because of the delay prices had risen and some fine tuning of the design was required . A contract for construction was then let to Greenscope Developments Pty Ltd in October 2010 .
The result was a high quality project completed in April 2011 , thanks to a cooperative builder and skilled project team that contributed enthusiastically to ensure a good outcome . Furnishing and equipping of the house , other than resident ’ s personal effects , was by St Margaret ’ s Congregation , made possible by the generous contributions of many supporters .
Arrangements were made for Uniting Care to be the operating agency , while residents were selected and moved in during July 2011 . There was a formal opening on 3 August 2011 . After the introduction of the NDIS and various changes in operational management it was decided to convert the separate lounge area that was no longer used , to a Bedsitter in 2015 , making Ross Walker Lodge a 7 Bedroom House managed by St Margaret ’ s Congregation .
Since that time a number of improvements have been progressively made . In 2018 individual reverse cycle air conditioners were installed in each of the bedsitters and the communal dining area , providing more comfortable summer conditions and reducing the use of winter gas heating . In 2020 a large solar photovoltaic system was added to reduce electricity consumption . The same year an adjustable pergola and paved barbecue area were added to the courtyard off the dining area and the carport was enclosed for greater security . In 2021 the gas boosted solar hot water system was becoming unreliable , and was replaced with three heat pump hot water units , eliminating the use of gas in a move to 100percent renewable energy at Ross Walker Lodge .
- Keith Baker
Starting of construction , October 2010
Photo by Keith Baker
St Margaret ’ s News 7 RWL Special Issue