Nurse Jan Dunlop says the beginning was stressful.

"The building of this facility was very stressful on us and intrusive on the neighbours," she said.

Caring for someone can be very stressful work and, each Tuesday, patients and their carers go to the cottage where they follow a 12-week program involving stress management.

"The Whole twelve week program is very stressful," said Jan.

"What we seek is to give strategies to help deal with (what is) a stressful time."

She said the response to the ‘home like’ Grevillea cottage, which has modern furniture, a kitchen, a rest room and two relaxation rooms, had been very positive.

"There has been a positive feed back from patients and their carers.

"The 12 week program is very successful. It helps to educate people suffering from cancer to deal with stress, so those who are suffering, don’t be afraid to approach us."

Grevillia Cottage started operation in May 1998.

Palliative Care provides the funding and there is zero cost to patients and their carers. There is volunteer help for those who have transport troubles.