We won’t be backing down, says government

A STATE Government spokesperson on Monday said there would be no backdown on plans to demolish the old Inglewood ambulance station.

“To protect the safety of paramedics and to ensure they can continue to provide emergency care, the decision was made to demolish the old branch once the new branch was complete – this decision remains unchanged,” they said.

The response came three hours after the Department of Health claimed a 2016 report “highlighted ongoing safety issues for paramedics with asbestos found in the building” although paramedics are still using the building seven years later.

Ripon MP Martha Haylett said: “To ensure the new Inglewood ambulance branch is safe for paramedics and delivers the required amenity and functionality for paramedics to quickly respond to local emergencies, the difficult decision was made to demolish the old Inglewood ambulance branch.

“The condition of the existing buildings onsite, including the old Inglewood Ambulance branch are poor and no longer fit-forpurpose.

“The ongoing yearly costs to maintain the buildings and keep them safe and functional is significant.

“Demolition of the old Inglewood ambulance branch will get underway in the coming weeks, once Inglewood’s hard-working paramedics move into their new, multi-milliondollar facility,” Ms Haylett said.

The old station is the only remaining building on the site after demolition last year of the ambulance residence before construction of the new station.

The department has been asked for further information on the 2016 report and maintenance costs over the last seven years.

Executive general manager customer and stakeholder experience, Lauren McLean, said the latest round of community rebates was being offered following a review of Coliban Water’s performance in 2022-2023. “Our community rebates are designed to provide the whole community with a financial benefit through support for community-directed projects.” Applications close on September 1.

Barley tariff lifted CHINA’S agreement to drop 80 per cent tariffs on Australian barley was a win forfarmers, said Malle MP Anne Webster. The tariffs were introduced in May 2020 after Beijing accused Australia of selling the grain below the cost of production and subsidising farmers, however the Chinese Government announced they would be dropped on Friday. According to latest Boort Grain Coop prices, the offer price for barley has lifted since last week’s decision.

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