It has taken more than a couple of decades but it finally happened yesterday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
It was a proud and historic occasion when the new $78.2 million ‘world class’ Parkes Hospital was officially opened.
And the most senior NSW Government representatives performed the ceremony, with Premier Mike Baird, Deputy Premier Troy Grant, Health Minister Jillian Skinner and local State MP, Andrew Gee all in Parkes for the ceremony.
Senior Health Department officials were also present, as well as Lachlan Health Council members, hospital staff, and Parkes Mayor Ken Keith and council officers.
The new hospital started to accept patients late last year, but had not been formally opened.
Minister Skinner and Premier Baird unveiled a plaque to commemorate the event in front of a large media contingent and a good crowd.
Ms Skinner said the new hospital was the end of a ‘very long journey for me.”
“It was back in 1995 when Parkes was promised a hospital, but nothing happened until May 2011 when we got the money.
“Now look at it. It’s right up there with the very best anywhere in the world, absolutely superb.”
Premier Baird agreed it was a ‘very special place’.
“It has been spoken about for so long, but we said back in 2011, if we got in (government) we would build it.
“In fact, Troy (Grant, former local MP) said if it was not built in his first term, he would not seek re-election!”
Deputy Premier Grant said he was ‘enormously proud’ of the new hospital.
“I certainly did not forsee this magnificent facility we have here today.
“And it is fitting that the Premier is here because he was the Treasurer who gave us the money, and I am indebted to the Minister who has worked tirelessly to bring this about.”
Local MP Andrew Gee stressed the hospital was a ‘triumph for the community.’
“The first hospital in 1904 was achieved through the enormous contribution of the local community. This too is a triumph for the community who has been working towards this for many, many years.
“A top quality health service is essential to secure the future of regional towns.”
The Premier, Deputy Premier and Minister travelled to Forbes after the ceemony for the official opening of the $40.9 million refurbishment.
Another official ceremony will be held in Peak Hill this morning.
Health Minister Skinner, Deputy Premier Grant and Member for Orange Andrew Gee will officially open the $12 million Peak Hill Multipurpose Service (MPS).
They will be joined by Federal Member for Calare John Cobb.
