Nationals Member for Myall Lakes, Tanya Thompson, has criticised the Health Minister’s latest “update” for the Manning Hospital Stage 2 redevelopment.
She says it delivers more talk and paperwork while patients and frontline health workers across the Myall Lakes electorate continue to be left waiting.
Mrs Thompson said the public release of another Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for the Manning Hospital Stage 2 redevelopment is being presented as progress, despite no certainty around timelines or construction.
“It is January 2026 and our community is still being shown planning documents and environmental reviews,” Mrs Thompson said.
“While the Minister is busy talking up revised scopes, our doctors and nurses are at breaking point and patients are waiting in corridors. We don’t need more reviews; we need shovels in the ground, beds on wards, and staff supported.”
Mrs Thompson said the community remains deeply sceptical about what will actually be delivered under the revised scope for Manning Hospital Stage 2, with concerns important elements of the original plans have been quietly removed.
She also said frustration is growing over continued delays to the Forster Urgent Care Centre, which remains stuck in consultation years after it was first promised.
“To tell an ageing and growing community that you are still reviewing plans for an Urgent Care Centre is an insult,” she said.
“Locals aren’t asking for updates, they want a safe place to take their sick children and family members without risking a long drive to Taree. Every delay puts lives at risk.”
Mrs Thompson said the Health Minister must stop the smoke and mirrors and deliver the healthcare this region was promised.
