Pormpuraaw locals to get first look at health centre

PORMPURAAW residents will be able to get their first look at the proposed new Primary Health Care Centre during a community information session this week.

Locals will be able to view initial designs of the proposed facility and staff accommodation at the session, which will be held on Wednesday at the Justice Centre between 9am and 2pm.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service staff will be available to speak with community members about the project.

TCHHS acting executive director of strategy and investment

Lindsay Pickstone said the replacement of the existing facility was announced last year.

He said the concept designs were finalised in May this year and had been recently shared with the Pormpuraaw Aboriginal Shire Council.

“We are very excited for the community to see the proposed designs for their new Primary Health Care Centre,” Mr Pickstone said.

“TCHHS is dedicated to con- tinually improving the standard of health care we offer in our remote communities, and a key part of that is improving the facilities where these services are provided from.

“We also want to ensure our staff are provided good quality accommodation.”

Mr Pickstone said it was hoped construction on the new facility could begin in mid-2024 and be completed by 2025.

The new centre and accommodation will be built on the same site as the existing facility.

There will be no interruption to services as the public will be able to continue to use the current facility until the new one is ready.

Once complete, it is proposed the new PHCC will include seven private consultation rooms – four more than the existing facility –and will have a specific infectious management space, as well as increased wet season storage.

The new build is part of Queensland Health’s $943 million Building Rural and Remote Health Program.

Interim CEO John Tucker said scholarships helped cover the costs of course fees, text books and living expenses.

“We know the power vocational education and training has to change people’s lives and we want to help people fulfil their career potential regardless of their circumstances,” he said.

“First launched in 2015, the TAFE Queensland Scholarship Program has awarded over $2.6 million in scholarships, helping more than 550 Queenslanders pursue their career goals.”

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply with dedicated scholarships available for First Nations students.

To apply, visit tafeqld.edu.au/ scholarships before September 29.