In a letter this month, committee president Peter Harradine said there had been growing speculation about the centre’s financial situation.

He said the centre had survived through volunteers working long hours in administration, staff fundraising, and support from service clubs, the Allambi Ladies Auxiliary and the community.

“Despite this immense support, it became obvious last year that Allambi could not keep functioning in its current form, and the committee made the decision to actively look for options to help Allambi survive,” he said.

Mr Harradine said the committee entered an agreement with Wimmera Health Care Group until the end of June.

He said health care group staff would help analyse Allambi’s performance and provide support.

Mr Harradine said the centre played an important role in the Dimboola community, and its high standard of resident care would continue.

“We are doing everything possible to secure the future of Allambi,” he said.

Health care group chief executive Chris Scott said the group would lend management support to help the committee make informed decisions about the way forward. 

“Allambi’s committee is looking to make some decisions about the centre’s long-term future,” he said.

“We are helping with management expertise so they can ensure their service capability and fiscal position going forward.

“The Allambi board is very mindful they've got a fragile environment, and that they need to make sure they make the right decisions going forward.

“That's why we've come along, to give them some breathing space.

“We are very much enjoying the relationship with the Allambi board, and certainly hope that by the end of the process we can ensure the viability and long-term status of Allambi for residents in Dimboola and surrounding areas.”