Nats pledge $30m to Cobram Hospital

By Cobram Courier

Sep 27, 2022

Election promise: State Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy is committing $30 million to healthcare in Cobram if the Nationals are elected in November. Photo by Contributed

The Cobram Hospital will be rejuvenated under a Nationals government, with a $30 million commitment delivered by Nationals Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy.

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Mr McCurdy said this funding was committied to the future of healthcare in Cobram.

“This is about doing the right thing for the next generation and ensuring that Cobram has the health services that it deserves,” Mr McCurdy said.

“I have campaigned long and hard in Parliament for the Andrews Labor Government to take healthcare seriously in Cobram.

“The government has ignored the concerns of the community for too long.

“Thanks to the Regional Infrastructure Guarantee, and the shelving of the Suburban Rail Loop, we have the commitment, and we have the means to pay for it.”

Mr McCurdy praised the work of the staff at the hospital, while also drawing attention to the out-of-date facilities.

“The staff are working as hard as they can, and do a fantastic job, however, the facilities are not backing up this work. We are going to change that and provide modern care in Cobram,” he said.

“The Nationals care about regional Victoria, and we are delivering in Cobram. We are guaranteeing that healthcare in Cobram receives a fair share of funding.”

The $30 million commitment will go towards a plethora of projects, including a major overhaul and renewal of the original hospital building, which is over 70 years old. This includes revamping the acute ward, medical imaging, the existing urgent care centre (UCC), as well as the reception and administration facilities.

The funding will also go towards various other upgrades and developments, which will see the Cobram Health Precinct brought up to date. Modern facilities, equipment and compliance with modern safety requirements will all see the patients and staff outcomes improve and ensure that staff have the facilities behind them to provide the best patient care.

Shadow Minister for Mental Health Emma Kealy said Mr McCurdy had been a passionate advocate for investment in Cobram Health for years.

“It’s fabulous to be able to support him and the community in this important announcement today,” Ms Kealy said.

“A Nationals government will deliver for healthcare in the regions and ensure that towns like Cobram can continue to receive high-quality healthcare — something every Victorian deserves.”