By Lana Eather

Macquarie Homestay proudly announced the appointment of Orange-based Renascent Regionals Pty Ltd as the building contractor for the Stage 2 expansion titled ‘CWA of NSW Guesthouse’. The planned expansion will provide 26 self-contained units including one-bed, two-bed and family units. MHS Managing Director Rod Crowfoot stated: “It is important to acknowledge the support received from many donors and sponsors, fundraising events and the NSW government who have all contributed to this stage. Through their support, an additional 9490 nights of accommodation will be provided to patients and their partner or carer/family needing affordable and appropriate patient accommodation. The extent of the impact of those needing healthcare is growing… and this expansion is important to particularly support the Cancer Centre in their specialised care.”

MP member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders attended the event and shared his pride in being involved in Macquarie Homestay as well as expansion plans. “Dubbo is a peak place to receive treatment and support. We want those needing accommodation to feel like it is home and feel supported while here.”

Guests Alan and Linda Graham from Coolah were travelling over 1800 kilometres per week to receive care in Dubbo before discovering Macquarie Homestay. Linda has been receiving ongoing healthcare and praises MHS staff and Dubbo locals with being “really lovely people. It has been amazing. We are so thankful for the beautiful meals and hospitality.” Husband Alan suggests Macquarie Homestay, "should be called paradise! I was driving from Coolah to Dubbo every day, and never knew MHS was here. It has been wonderful to find such a beautiful place to stay.”

CWA have been staunch supporters of MHS, and enthusiastically add their title to the new units to be completed in October 2024. Macquarie Group President Marj Blatch declares. “to know we are helping people in one small way is incredible.”