NSW Health Minister Jillian Skinner inspected progress on the Molong Multi-Purpose Service (MPS) during her visit to the town yesterday, saying the main construction works are on track for completion in the first half of this year.
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Health Infrastructure NSW representatives on site pointed out to Mrs Skinner and member for Orange Andrew Gee where the next phase, demolition of a former administration building, would take place.
The new $15 million MPS on the site of the former Molong Hospital will involve the building of a new wing to include 20 aged care residential patients.
Health Infrastructure NSW chief executive Sam Sangster said although he and his staff were involved in major health projects throughout NSW, including the redevelopment of Westmead Hospital, it was gratifying to visit Molong and see how excited the community is about the injection of funds to improve health services.
“I would have to say I probably get a bigger thrill out of seeing what’s happening today than many of our larger projects because I know what it means to this community,” he said.
He said the project would also include refurbishing the existing building.
Mr Gee said when he first began representing the Orange electorate he observed people were nervous about the erosion of health services in the region.
“But I would have to say that fear and angst has evaporated and we are now dealing with optimism now that Molong is leading the way in the delivery of health services for country people,” he said.
Western NSW Local Health District chief executive Scott McLachlan said a team effort from general practitioners through to allied health professionals was continuing to deliver better health services for the region.
Following the Molong visit yesterday, the $12 million Peak Hill MPS was officially opened by Deputy Premier Troy Grant, Ms Skinner, Mr Gee and member for Calare John Cobb.
Funding for Peak Hill’s MPS came from the federal and state governments who contributed $6 million each.
janice.harris@fairfaxmedia.com.au
