As we continue to navigate our way through the COVID-19 pandemic, it was great to join with my Federal colleague Mark Coulton and staff from Dubbo Medical and Allied Health as they put the finishing touches on the respiratory clinic that has been established in Dubbo.
The Brisbane Street clinic is now taking patients who are symptomatic for testing, and it’s hoped this will take some of the strain off our hospital system.
Anyone who is experiencing a fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose or other symptoms can book by visiting the HotDoc app or website, or by calling 6815 9900.
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Last week the Western NSW Local Health District, which takes in the Dubbo, Narromine and Mid-Western local government areas that make up the Dubbo electorate, moved to having no active confirmed cases of COVID-19.
This is great news, but it doesn’t mean we should be complacent.
With restrictions slowly being relaxed, we still need to ensure that we practice physical distancing and proper hygiene in order minimise any potential spread.
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Last week I had the chance to make a few more funding announcements, including for Dubbo PCYC to continue with its Fit For Life and Fit For Work programs.
Almost $200,000 was allocated to the organisation, which will allow these vital youth projects to continue for another 18 months.
It was also wonderful to announce $136,550 worth of funding for Orana Arts to be directed to their BBC XL program aimed at creating a pathway for budding theatre performers.
And it was great to visit the site of the $2.8 billion Dubbo Rail Maintenance Facility, where work has begun to clear the site.
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The work of the Royal Flying Doctor Service cannot be underestimated, so it was great to be able to announce a further $810,000 of funding for the organisation during the work.
The money will be split two ways, with $750,000 going towards two fully-equipped Mobile Service Vehicles and $60,000 for 60 iPads attached to Medical Chest locations to enhance telehealth services.
I am proud of the support given to the RFDS, who recently announced they would supply flights so Sydney-based medical specialists can continue to visit the western region of NSW during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Until next week, Dugald.