Kiama Lions is delighted that its innovative Carers Cottage, still the only one of its kind, has welcomed almost 100 carers through its door since it opened in 2019.

With the help of the Gerringong and Minnamurra Clubs, and the generosity of local businesses and tradespeople, a derelict house owned by Council in Shoalhaven Street was transformed a modern, accessible holiday home to be used to give carers a break.

"We are able to offer carers a highly subsidised rent by leasing the house out for its true value 60 days a year,” says the Lions member who manages the cottage, Cheryl Moses.

“The funding comes from local organisations which have NDIS funding for carers.

“The feedback is just lovely – it makes it all worthwhile.”

Cheryl in the fully stylish and fully equipped kitchen/lounge area

While Cheryl manages the bookings, other club members look after the gardening, take out the bins and do any maintenance required.

“More people are hearing about us, and the ones that come here want to come back,” says Cheryl.

This year’s bookings by carers have already exceeded those for the whole of last year, and they have reached the maximum for non-carer bookings. Up to three bedrooms are available, but carers mostly come by themselves.

Each of the bedrooms have accessible ensuites

Lions currently leases the cottage from Council, but at its March Meeting Council determined to review the cost of the lease and explore a means of sale by limited tender application from local not-for-profit organisations.