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Healthy outlook for revamp of local centre

Headshot of Liam Beatty
Liam BeattyGeraldton Guardian
The Dongara Health Centre.
Camera IconThe Dongara Health Centre. Credit: Supplied

The planned redevelopment of the Dongara Health Centre hit a significant milestone last week, with a tender for the $6.8 million works awarded to a WA-based building company.

It has been awarded to Devlyn Australia and includes upgrades to the emergency department, ambulance bay, expansion of residential aged care, and telehealth services.

The centre was officially opened in 1998 at a cost of $3.3m.

Irwin Shire president Mike Smith said the renovation would “reinvigorate” the 23-year-old facility’s ability to deliver front-line healthcare for the community and region.

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“The current facility is showing signs of wear and tear,” he said.

“We have an ageing demographic; healthcare is an integral part of our community.

“It’s going to be a huge improvement to Dongara’s health services.”

Cr Smith said a health scare of his own had really shown him the importance of access to front-line care — something close to the hearts of Irwin residents.

“The development has consistently been highlighted as the No.1 priority in surveys of our community,” he said.

“We’re very thankful investments are being made to ensure our residents have access to modern healthcare.”

Health Minister Roger Cook said the centre would remain fully functional throughout the redevelopment, which is expected to be completed by mid-2023.

“The revitalised Dongara Health Centre is set to provide access to technology that will play a huge role in improving patient experience and connecting patients with specialists via state-of-the-art virtual care technology,” he said.

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