Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
It has been a significant week for Mackay, with the future of Mackay Base Hospital taking a major step forward and Queensland Road Safety Week reminding us of the responsibility we all share to keep each other safe.
The Queensland Government has unveiled the long-term masterplan for Mackay Base Hospital, providing a clear pathway for how our hospital will grow to meet the future needs of Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday.
Premier David Crisafulli, Health Minister Tim Nicholls, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and I were pleased to outline the masterplan and confirm what will be delivered as part of Stage One.
Stage One will deliver at least 128 new overnight beds, expanded emergency, maternity, birthing, surgical, endoscopy, neonatal and paediatric services, as well as a new Mackay Birth Centre.
It will also deliver more than 1,000 additional car parks and a rooftop helipad, addressing two issues that have been regularly raised with me by hospital staff, patients and local families.
Major construction is expected to begin in 2027 following detailed design and contractor procurement, with Stage One scheduled for completion by 2030.
Importantly, work is already happening, including recommissioning the hospital's on-site helipad and delivering a temporary 80-space fleet car park.
For me, this announcement is about giving Mackay a genuine long-term plan for our hospital.
Our region continues to grow and Mackay Base Hospital provides critical healthcare not only to our city, but to communities right across the wider region.
Mackay deserves quality healthcare close to home, and this masterplan gives us a clear pathway to build the capacity and services our community will need into the future.
While we welcome this investment in healthcare, this week is also Queensland Road Safety Week, running from 17 to 21 August.
It is a timely reminder that keeping people safe isn't just about having quality healthcare available when something goes wrong. We all have a responsibility to help prevent tragedies in the first place.
The Fatal Five dangerous driving behaviours remain speeding, drink and drug driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, fatigue and driver distraction.
Whether you're travelling across Mackay, heading along the Bruce Highway or simply driving a few streets home, a momentary decision can have lifelong consequences.
So please slow down, buckle up, put the phone away, never drive impaired and stop for a rest when you're tired.
Nigel Dalton MP
Member for Mackay
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