In September, family-owned aged care provider Hall & Prior were granted a one-month extension for the settlement of the $95 million Blue Haven Bonaira aged care facility, which, after significant adjustments, saw the sale price plummet to an expected $26 million.

Further delays have now been announced. In a joint statement, Council and Hall & Prior attributed the setback to continued “due diligence” and anticipated closures over the end-of-year holiday period.

The new settlement date is expected to be in February next year.

Graeme Prior, CEO of Hall & Prior, explained the delay, saying it was to ensure all preparations are complete before finalising the agreement.

"We are dedicated to ensuring everything is in place, and our teams are working hard on-site to meet these objectives."

The decision to sell was driven by the substantial debt accumulated by the Council from the construction and expansion of Blue Haven Bonaira, which has resulted in a loss of $3.5 million each year for the Council since the facility began operating.

Funds made from the sale will go towards settling Council’s debt.  

Blue Haven Community Transport will be divested by Transport NSW. Coast and Country Community Services have been named the preferred provider to take over the program. 

Coast and Country operate in Shoalhaven, Bega Valley, Young and Weddin Shires.

“This will ensure our community continues to receive reliable and high-quality transport services, supporting both residents and staff across the region,” Joe Gaudiosi, Chief Operating Officer for Kiama Council said.