For Cecily Raynor, searching for a safe and permanent home has been long and arduous. At 68 years of age, she’s spent much of her life navigating the challenges of living with an acquired brain injury and epilepsy, conditions she has managed since a car accident in infancy.
Over the years, Cecily has moved home many times, struggling to find suitable accommodation that meets her needs. Now, through Accessible Homes Australia (AHA) and their new innovative Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) in Hervey Bay, Cecily’s dream of secure, accessible living is finally becoming a reality.
Set for completion in early 2026, Urraween Village will feature 12 state-of-the-art, single-level villas with 24/7 Onsite Shared Support (OSS), accessible swimming pool, barbeque area, and a community garden – a safe and inclusive living alternative for NDIS participants living with High Physical Support needs.
“I’ve faced several challenges securing a permanent home and have needed to move many times. My last place was no exception when I had to vacate because the owners wanted it back. Finding accessible accommodation has also been a constant struggle, often forcing me to settle for homes that don’t fully meet my needs,” said Cecily. With the rising cost of housing in Hervey Bay, particularly for a two-bedroom property, Cecily feared she would end up without a home.
“I thought I was going to end up on the street, but with the help of AHA, I’m going to have a beautiful place of my own and won’t have the fear of having to move again. I can afford to reside in a comfortable home built for disability, and it’s mine to live in. I’m really looking forward to it.”
Cecily first heard about Urraween Village from one of her carers and was immediately intrigued by the concept of private villas designed for people with disabilities. She contacted Brianna Barry, AHA’s General Manager of Customer and Operations.
“Bree walked me through the design plans, and I was impressed. The villas are perfectly laid out, with two bedrooms so guests can visit. Urraween Village itself has a lovely community feel. What’s most reassuring is the security of having your villa and not having to move out because an owner has sold. The peace of mind of having a permanent home is exactly what I need.”
One of the features Cecily is most excited about is the assistive technology integrated into the custom-built villas. With voice-controlled air conditioning, automated doors and window blinds, and advanced duress and communication systems, home automation will make daily tasks easier, especially those that can be challenging due to her tremors.
“Using voice commands to operate the homes, especially light switches, will greatly help me. It’s the support that will allow me to live more independently.”
Beyond smart home technology, onsite 24-hour care provides Cecily with an invaluable sense of security.
“Knowing someone is always there to help is comforting. I won’t be alone if I have an episode in the evening. There’s someone to call for assistance and help me with tasks that can be difficult. It’s great for residents with disabilities.”
Cecily also appreciates the strength of AHA’s leadership, including Founder Perry Cross AM, whose firsthand experience with disability brings a deep understanding of those with high support nedes.
“When i met Perry and heard his story about relying on family for care, it resonated with me. He’s designed an SDA living model based on experience because he knows what it’s like to want to live independently. That’s what Urraween Village is – independent living that offers constant care.”
With only a year before Urraween Village is ready for residents, Cecily’s excitement grows daily. She often drives past the development site, watching the progress and imagining the day she will finally step into her new home.
“It’s exciting. I can’t wait to be living in one of those homes.”
For Cecily, Urraween Village represents far more than just a place to live; it promises stability, independence, and a future without fear of displacement. Thanks to Accessible Homes Australia, she will have a home that meets her needs, offering a space where she feels safe and supported.
To learn more about Urraween Village or to apply for a tenancy, contact Bree from the AHA team at 0411 191 548 or email brianna.barry@accessiblehomes.au.
