RESIDENTS of Lakeside Village in Bibra Lake have voted to keep their hired helpers by the narrowest margin.

Last week at the retirement home’s strata meeting, a motion to drop the emergency response  assisstants and have just an off-site call system was defeated 70-71.

• Moya Bruce helped 90-year-old Peggy Grieves and her daughter Laura Casey lobby to keep carers at Lakeside Village. File
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The issue had split the complex with some arguing it was being pushed by younger, more able-bodied residents because they didn’t need the ERAs, while the other side says tough economic times makes the $50-$60 monthly savings “huge”.

Despite their win, supporters of the carers say they’re under no illusion the issue will be raised again.