The Snowy Monaro Regional Council has extended the submission period for Expressions of Interest to repurpose Snowy River Hostel in Berridale, between Cooma and Jindabyne, 432km southwest of Sydney, and expanded the range of alternative uses it will consider from just short-term respite care to include over 65s support, affordable housing, and crisis accommodation.

Expressions of Interest first opened in 2021, when the Council announced it wanted to exit its aged care operations.

Yallambee Lodge has since been sold to aged care turnaround experts Respect Aged Care, with the takeover taking effect on 1 April 2024.

According to the Council, respite care could include ‘cottage respite’ services provided under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), short-term accommodation or respite care provided under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

The Council said it would also consider alternative care models to support people over the age of 65 years, affordable or community housing, and crisis housing.

Expressions of Interest close at 9am Wednesday 27 March 2024.