Local paramedics have been handed the keys to Forster’s first ambulance station with construction of the new state-of-the-art station now complete.
Nationals Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said the new purpose-built station on Breese Parade was delivered as part of the NSW Government’s $232 million Rural Ambulance Infrastructure Reconfiguration program.
“We’ve reached the final milestone in the delivery of Forster’s first ambulance station, which will provide local paramedics with a high-quality base and the latest facilities and equipment to meet the current and future emergency care needs of the Great Lakes,” Mr Bromhead said.
“The new station will support the new ambulance station in Old Bar and recently completed refurbishments at Taree, Bulahdelah and Tuncurry stations, which has significantly enhanced access to mobile emergency health care across Myall Lakes.”
Forster Ambulance Station includes;
• Internal parking for up to six emergency ambulance vehicles;
• Administration and office areas;
• Staff amenities;
• Logistics and storage areas;
• Relief accommodation;
• External wash bay; and
• Staff parking
Nationals Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said with construction for the new station now complete, NSW Ambulance is undertaking operational commissioning activities, which includes testing systems and adding the finishing touches to the internal fit-out, ahead of the station becoming operational later this year.
“It is exciting to be here today with local paramedics to inspect the new station which, once operational, will ensure they are equipped to meet current and future demand for emergency care in this region,” Mrs Taylor said.
“The NSW Nationals in Government are committed to investing in rural and regional health infrastructure to support better health outcomes for our local communities.”
The Rural Ambulance Infrastructure Reconfiguration program (RAIR) has delivered 24 new or upgraded ambulance stations to date, as part of the $132 million Stage 1 of the program. Another $100 million investment into ambulance assets is being delivered under Stage 2 of the program.
NSW Ambulance recently received funding for 2,128 staff and will build 30 more stations over the coming years after a $1.76 billion boost announced as part of the NSW Government’s 2022-23 Budget.
The $1.76 billion over four years will fund NSW with 1,858 paramedics, 210 ambulance support staff, 52 nurses and eight doctors.
NSW Nationals candidate for the Myall Lakes, Tanya Thompson, welcomed the opening of the new station.
“It was fantastic to stand beside Mr Bromhead and the Minister for Regional Health, Bronnie Taylor as work at Forster’s first ambulance station is complete.
“This station is vital in ensuring the healthcare needs of the community are met by not only opening the new facility, which is in addition to the upgraded ambulance station in Tuncurry, but also by increasing the number of paramedics locally.
“I will continue to fight for the ongoing healthcare needs of the community, ensuring Mr Bromhead’s legacy is fulfilled.”
