$1.6 MILLION SECURED FOR CRITICAL UPGRADES AT MACLEAN DISTRICT HOSPITAL

Funding of $1.6 million has been confirmed for two critical infrastructure upgrades at Maclean District Hospital — the replacement of the hospital’s only lift and the outdated nurse call system, Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson has announced today.

Mr Williamson said he strongly advocated for the urgent works and received confirmation from NSW Health Minister Ryan Park last week that funding had been approved.

“These are vital upgrades that the staff, patients and community at Maclean Hospital desperately need, and I am very pleased to have secured this funding,” Mr Williamson said.

“The hospital’s only lift is over 30 years old, has failed multiple times, and when it’s out of service patients and staff simply cannot access essential parts of the hospital. An investment of $600,000 will ensure the lift is replaced in a planned way rather than waiting for a catastrophic failure.”

Mr Williamson said the second project, worth $1 million, will replace the nurse call system which is also more than 30 years old.

“The system has reached the end of its supportable life and parts are no longer available due to its age, so I am very pleased this funding will now deliver a safe, reliable system,” he said.

Mr Williamson said the upgrades come on top of funding secured earlier this year for a $245,000 upgrade of the hospital’s mortuary facilities, which delivered new flooring, walls, ceiling, fridges, and improved access.

“This is about making sure Maclean District Hospital remains safe and functional for patients, families, and the dedicated staff who care for them,” Mr Williamson said.

“I thank Minister Ryan Park for listening to the concerns I raised on behalf of our community and for committing this funding.”

PHOTO: Richie with some of the hardworking members of the Maclean United Hospital Auxiliary – Bev Anderson – Treasurer, Judy Anderson, Helen & Peter Hamilton, Nola Baker, Marilyn Donelan - Secretary and Anne Farrell - President.