A re-elected NSW Government will deliver an additional $114 million for the final stage of Manning Base Hospital, ensuring the health needs of the growing Myall Lakes region are met for years to come.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the $114 million injection to bolster the intensive and emergency care services at the hospital would bring the full cost of the project to $254 million, with $100 million already allocated to Stage 2 and $40 million spent on Stage 1 of the project.
“This project delivers on our commitment to ensure more patients in regional communities can be cared for closer to home in state-of-the-art facilities and with a world-class workforce,” Mr Toole said.
“For many living in the regions, having this standard of healthcare on their doorstep can be the difference between them getting the care they need, or being forced to travel longer distances to the nearest city.
“While we power ahead with this game-changing redevelopment, today we send a clear message to the community that we are not done yet – and it’s the NSW Nationals in government that will continue to invest in this project because we know how important it is to locals.”
Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said since 2011, the Nationals in government have delivered more than 180 health capital projects across NSW, with more than 130 projects currently underway – more than 90 of which are in rural and regional areas.
“This is another example of the NSW Nationals bringing top-quality and accessible health care services to all corners of our state,” Mrs Taylor said.
“I want to thank the local Member Stephen Bromhead for his advocacy on this project – his tireless work has ensured we will deliver a project that means people in Myall Lakes have access to the same, if not better, standard of healthcare available to people in the city.”
Mr Bromhead said he is thrilled the Nationals in government have been able to deliver this important project.
“Thanks to this announcement, we will have access to incredible healthcare right on our doorstep for generations to come. I thank the community and everyone who has rallied hard for this facility,” Mr Bromhead said.
The additional funding would see an investment into intensive care, emergency medicine, theatres and ambulatory care with further consultation with clinicians and community. As well as this, the Stage 2 redevelopment includes:
- A new hospital building incorporating inpatient units, clinical support departments and access to telehealth spaces
- New 2-storey clinical spine to separate public and patient clinical areas, improve flow and connectivity of services
- Relocation and expansion of inpatient resources, including pharmacy and pathology
- Improved drop-off and front of house areas to provide a clear entry to the hospital
- An integrated back of house and upgrade of essential hospital infrastructure
- Reconfiguration and refurbishment of key areas.
Other Health projects in the region include:
- New ambulance stations for Forster and Old Bar
- Refurbishments at Bulahdelah Ambulance Station, Taree Ambulance Station and Tuncurry Ambulance Station
- A new public hospital for Forster-Tuncurry
