Rice Village - Respect and Reverence for the Person

Rice, Rice Village, The Village – all are names for a residential aged-care facility that has become a new home at Marshall for 170 of our senior citizens.

Maie Rice and Kathleen Moylan (nee Rice) would certainly be thrilled to see the magnificent complex that has been built on the ten-acre site of their former hotel. Many years of work and planning by Geelong community representatives, the Catholic Archdiocesan Office and the Sisters of Mercy have culminated in a complex of which Geelong can be justly proud.

The philosophy of respect and reverence for the dignity of each person, the offering of spiritual enrichment and the encouragement of independence have led to the development of a real ‘village’ atmosphere. Those in independent living look out for each other, take a meal for those who may not be feeling well, offer a ride to the doctor or supermarket, or just enjoy each other’s company over a game of cards or a cup of tea.

The peaceful, tranquil atmosphere of the Village is evident to all who visit. The beautiful rose gardens lead to the modern yet traditional chapel from where the true peace emanates. How fortunate the residents are to have their resident chaplain, Fr Tom Furey, celebrate Mass almost daily. Benediction, rosary groups and discussion groups are also regular features. Thirty-four Sisters of Mercy, a Sister of Good Samaritan, and a Missionary Sister of Service add a dignified and serene presence to the Village.

Stage 1 consisted of 30 Independent Living Units, a 40-bed Hostel and 10 Serviced Apartments. Stage 2 was the St Joseph’s relocated 36-bed Nursing Home. Stage 3, completed in May, was an outstanding activities centre, featuring a library, lounge and bar area, craft room and dining room extension and 25 two-bedroom Units and 6 one-bedroom Units. Stage 4, commencing within a few weeks, will be a further 12 two-bedroom Units (completing the Units stage) and 4 extra rooms for the Nursing Home, bringing the total to 40.

Waiting lists for all stages are very long – testament to the caring, happy atmosphere that is so evident to all. Our valued volunteers add the extra touches so important to the lives of our residents.

Accommodation at Rice Village is for all – over 80 per cent of our residents are pensioners. Access to the Hostel and Nursing Home is available to all, regardless of financial status. Prices for the two-bedroom Independent Living Units range from an affordable $101,500. Smaller one-bedroom units attract a variety of payment options, depending on one’s financial situation.

The Catholic community of Geelong should feel a real ownership of this exciting complex where the Gospel message of Jesus is being lived out on a daily basis.

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