The Launch of a Ground Breaking Port Macquarie Dementia Care Facility

In March 2024, the doors to Emmaus Village officially opened, marking a new era in dementia care for the Mid North Coast of NSW. This state-of-the-art $28 million facility, spearheaded by St Agnes’ Catholic Parish, is designed to provide a compassionate and innovative approach to caring for individuals living with dementia.

The project, supported by $11.5 million in federal and state government funding, has been years in the making. Emmaus Village represents a culmination of community vision, government support, and global best practices in aged care.

A Vision Turned Reality

The journey to create Emmaus Village began in 2008, when St Agnes’ Catholic Parish recognised the growing need for dementia-specific care in the Port Macquarie region. With one of the highest rates of dementia prevalence in NSW, the community sought to develop a facility that could provide dignity, independence, and quality of life for residents.

“This has been a labour of love for our community,” said Adam Spencer, CEO of St Agnes’ Catholic Parish. “Emmaus Village is more than a facility—it’s a home and a place of connection for residents and their families.”

Key Milestones and Funding

The first major funding boost came in 2020 when the NSW Government pledged $5 million under the Regional Communities Development Fund. This funding enabled the development of the Emmaus Memory Support Community Centre, the vibrant heart of the village.

In July 2022, Federal Member for Cowper, Pat Conaghan, secured $6.5 million under the Building Better Regions Fund. Mr Conaghan emphasised the project’s importance to the community and its potential to serve as a model for regional dementia care across Australia.

“This is not just an investment in infrastructure but an investment in people,” Mr Conaghan said. “Emmaus Village showcases what can be achieved when local vision is backed by government support.”

Innovative Design for Quality of Life

Inspired by the Dutch Hogeweyk model, Emmaus Village features a “small home” design with 12 houses for up to 94 residents. The layout fosters a sense of independence while prioritising safety and social interaction.

Key amenities include:

• A café, wellness centre, and community gardens.
• A cinema and dedicated GP clinic.
• Spaces for residents to socialise and engage in meaningful activities.

“This is a village where residents can live life on their terms,” said Mr Spencer. “It’s about creating a supportive environment that feels like home.”

Overcoming Challenges

The road to completion wasn’t without obstacles. Construction began in early 2022 during a time of global uncertainty, with supply chain issues and rising costs threatening to derail progress. Despite these challenges, the team pressed on, ensuring the village was ready for its grand opening in March 2024.

“Seeing Emmaus Village completed is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved,” Mr Conaghan said. “This project is a source of pride for our entire region.”

A New Era for Dementia Care in Port Macquarie

With its official opening, Emmaus Village has set a new benchmark for aged care facilities in Australia. Residents now have access to a safe, engaging, and community-focused environment that prioritises their well-being.

The Community Centre, at the heart of the village, serves not only residents but also their families, volunteers, and local health professionals, strengthening the bonds between the village and the broader community.

A Beacon of Hope and Innovation

Emmaus Village is more than just a facility—it’s a testament to what can be achieved when communities, governments, and organisations work together. For Port Macquarie, it’s a proud moment that highlights the region’s commitment to innovation and care.

“Emmaus Village will not only provide critical support for individuals living with dementia but also serve as an example of how aged care can and should be done,” Mr Conaghan said.