If there's a will there is a way
Senator McKenzie was apparently a driving force for the Regional Deal (RD) announced in early 2019 under which the proposed new health facility may be considered.
I invite any one with time on their hands to look at these RDs, they read like an episode from the ABC's brilliant political satire, Utopia.
Activity within the RDs usually involve committees looking at reports into actions proposed to be taken by prior committees, with the aim of establishing a new committee, to formulate a plan for future committees to address re the implementation of the first committee's proposals. This fits in neatly with the Morrison governments modus operandi of taking no action on anything, unless it is directly election focused.
I am sure if the will to build a new hospital exists (The Border Mail suggested up to $1 billion cost) then the money will be no object, reference at least $13 billion that is owed to the taxpayer from business that did not meet JobKeeper conditions.
$660 million car park rort. $100m sports rort. All these "projects" took only a matter of months to see the light of day.
The states are primarily responsible for their health systems, but as the RDs are a federal-state initiative then there is no reason a new hospital for our region could not be built within say 10 years. I will not hold my breath.
Geoff Brown, Wodonga
IN OTHER NEWS:
We deserve a better system
North East Victorians deserve a well funded health service by Victorian government and Albury NSW residents want the same, rather than VicHealth stickers plaster over the Albury Hospital building.
Charlie Mitchell, Albury
A great attitude to life
Tuesday's letter from Joan Parker (Always look on the bright side) made my day! It brought to mind the old 'glass half full - glass half empty' adage, but Joan's letter really was about being thankful we have a glass at all! It made my day. Thanks Joan.
Di Bainbridge, Wodonga
Support makes a big difference
Thank you to all the community members, health care professionals and people impacted by dementia who marked Dementia Action Week 2021 from 20-26 September.
Across Australia, individuals and organisations supported our campaign, 'A little support makes a big difference'. The campaign was to increase understanding about dementia and how we can all make a difference to the lives of people who are impacted and help to eliminate discrimination.
On behalf of the estimated 277,900 people living with dementia in New South Wales and Victoria, we thank everyone for their support.
For information and tips to find out how you can continue to make a difference please visit discrimination.dementia.org.au.
Maree McCabe AM, CEO Dementia Australia
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