Could a buyer take on Feros Aged Care Byron Bay?

The Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kemper has written to Byron Shire Council to say it will work with anyone willing to take over the crown land lease site of Feros Care Byron Bay, which announced in February it will close due to the tighter regulatory environment and its buildings no longer being fit for purpose, NBN News has reported.

Byron Shire Council told NBN News it will meet to discuss the options.

The Byron community is hoping an alternative provider will step in to save the home, where eight residents remain living.

A statement from Feros Care to The SOURCE said, “Feros Care has not been approached by an alternate approved provider to take over the site or the operations. 

“We continue as the Crown Land Manager with our intent to consult with the community and invest in developing affordable seniors accommodation that fits within Crown Land ’s reserve purpose of Homes for the Aged.”

In February 2023, Feros Care made the decision to close the Byron Bay home because its 33-year-old buildings were deemed no longer fit for purpose. Initially, the home was scheduled to close on 23 June, but when 10 residents refused to leave a one-month extension was granted until 19 July. 

The SOURCE: Any alternative provider would face the same challenges and obligations faced by Feros Care.