Charters Towers Region needs a new hospital

Council is advocating for a new hospital and is calling on the community to attend a forum regarding the Charters Towers Health Service.

The ‘Call to Action Forum – New Hospital for Charters Towers’ will provide a chance for the community to listen and discuss the issues being faced by our region and help plan the push for a new hospital.

A new, purpose-built hospital will not only benefit the Charters Towers Region, but will also be of benefit to people as far west as Richmond, by increasing the capacity for emergency, surgery, sub-acute and outpatient services.  

Mayor Frank Beveridge said the current ‘hospital’ has been left behind when it comes to funding and has become a ‘health service’.

“The current lack of hospital facilities often forces patients to travel long distances, often in critical conditions, to seek medical attention, which is hard on both those needing care and those close to them. 

“A new hospital would bring medical expertise closer to home, significantly reducing the travel burden and improving healthcare outcomes for all those in need,” said Mayor Beveridge.

The current facility is heritage listed and unable to be expanded, and faces many basic facility issues such as plumbing, piping, fire and safety standards, as well as major layout limitations, making it an inadequate health facility.

Council has identified land adjacent to the current Eventide Residential Aged Care Facility and is now pushing for the promise of funding from key stakeholders. 

Planning for the Forum is well underway, with the following special guest speakers already identified to discuss this all important topic:

• Dr Jean Covey: Gold City Medical Centre
• Mr Robbie Katter MP: State Member for Traeger
• Mr Dale Last: State Member for Burdekin, Representing the Opposition and Shadow Minister for Health
• Mr Tony Mooney: Chair, Townsville Hospital and Health Service

Local residents will also share their stories about issues they have faced in an effort to help push for a new hospital.

“A region of our size and population, along with the westerners who use us as a service hub, shouldn’t have to travel to Townsville for these services.  

“This forum is not aimed at the dedicated staff who work at the current facility; they do a tremendous job.  This is about acknowledging the need for appropriate medical facilities and respecting the essential health care needs of our residents,” continued Mayor Beveridge.

Charters Towers is currently experiencing unprecedented interest in the area, and a new hospital would not only provide essential healthcare services but also contribute to the overall economic development of the community by creating job opportunities, attracting healthcare professionals, and fostering local businesses.

All interested community members are encouraged to attend to show their support for this project.

When:  Saturday, 3 June 2023 from 2pm
Where: The World Theatre, 90 Mosman Street, Charters Towers