Foundation News Posts

Hammering home a major ‘Reno for Pohlen’

With a Pohlen Hospital extension currently in the planning that will provide a further 13 beds, a need to expand the space occupied by Matamata Medical Centre and a strong focus on a long and successful future for our largest community owned asset, exciting developments are underway that will significantly help with funding the improvements!

Absolutely passionate about Pohlen Hospital and its future, Gilly Alexander, the Fundraising Manager of Pohlen Foundation, and her husband Ross have provided an opportunity that has created a buzz amongst local tradies, businesses and the community.

Having recently sold their farm, the Alexander’s purchased a property with the intention of helping their daughter. As it happened however, circumstances changed quickly and the house was no longer required. The couple could have sold it on the open market and been subject to Brightline test legislation – or, with any short term capital gains going to a charitable trust, be in a position to keep proceeds within the community they love. As far as Gilly and Ross were concerned, it was a no brainer!

“After discussion with Pohlen Foundation board members, we agreed on a fair and reasonable value of the house in it’s current state” says Ross, “and that is the price they will buy it at.” The twist however, is that by getting the community on board and completely refurbishing everything – literally including the kitchen sink, the Foundation stands to make considerable profit from the sale which has been scheduled towards the end of this year.

At an open meeting held by Pohlen Foundation Trust, expressions of interest were invited to completely make over the two storied, four bedroom home from the ground up where all upgrades, fittings and fixtures including bathrooms, kitchen, flooring, landscaping, painting and decorating will be offered ‘in kind’.

“We, the Pohlen Foundation, have already been absolutely overwhelmed with the generosity and kindness from all sectors” says Gilly. “The fact that various companies and tradespeople have collectively agreed to work alongside each other for the good of the cause truly shows what fantastic community spirit there is when it comes to the future and welfare of Pohlen Hospital.”

Although regular updates and progress reports will follow, anyone interested in becoming involved is welcome to email [email protected]. Whether it’s “purchasing” a square metre of flooring or contributing to removal of a shed for example, all enquires or donations will be hugely appreciated. It’s a ‘Reno for Pohlen’ and the entire community is invited to share the journey to completion! n