The operational figure, largely provided to the cross-border health service by the Victorian and NSW governments, has increased by around $70 million in the last five years in a major revelation made at the service’s annual meeting on Thursday night.

It has helped AWH record its first “true” operational surplus of $400,000 with the only other profit returned in its nine-year existence being the $1,187,000 profit in 2014-15.

The previous profit was boosted by some one-off, unexpected grant funding late in the financial year.

Total expenses in 2017-18 were almost $280 million, further underlining health as one of the biggest contributors to the Albury-Wodonga economy.

In the last financial year, AWH treated 37,780 inpatients, triaged 63,470 emergency presentations _ an increase of 527 since last year _ and delivered 1656 babies in figures very favourable with similar sized health services in Victoria.

AWH chair Nicki Melville began the annual meeting by acknowledging the recent death of surgeon Neil Bright.

“He really gave his all for the good of the public health and his teaching, mentoring and surgical skills are sadly missed by all of us,” she said.

Ms Melville was granted a one-year extension to remain on the board and in the role of chair, but will need to vacate her position at the end of 2018-19 in line with AWH board tenure protocols.

Departing at the end of 2017-18 were former chairman Lou Lieberman, Julia Coyle and Pauline Ross.

They have been replaced by former private hospital chief executive Doug McRae, Lisa Ryan and Rowan O’Hagan.

The biggest infrastructure addition to AWH in the past financial year was the opening of the cardiac cathetar lab which was largely bankrolled by $5 million from the federal government.

The $30 million emergency department upgrade at Albury hospital is expected to start in 2019.

The annual report also revealed planning was underway for an enhanced intensive care unit and consolidation of acute services including maternity and special care nursery at Albury.

Consolidation of expansion of rehabilitation, palliative care and community services will take place in Wodonga.