A new drug and alcohol residential rehabilitation centre near Bairnsdale is saving lives, says local MP Darren Chester.
Mr Chester says the centre, run by Odyssey House Victoria, is also giving hope to families with a loved one struggling with addiction.
The 58-bed 3000 square metre facility, now known as Odyssey House Victoria Hope Centre, opened its doors to its first residents in April.
Mr Chester, who secured $3.8 million from the Federal Government for the project, said the centre at Lucknow was providing a vital service to Gippsland.
“This facility is one that, unfortunately, has been desperately needed,” Mr Chester said.
“Many people seeking rehabilitation were faced with going to Melbourne or interstate. For many, that’s just too far, too hard, too expensive and too overwhelming.
“This centre is a place where people can seek help in peaceful surroundings and remain within reach of family and friends.”
The remarkable effort to establish the rehabilitation centre, including a fundraising campaign that raised almost $1 million, will be celebrated at the virtual launch of a book documenting the story on November 18.
A Time of Hope, written by Tom Valetta, tells the story of how a plan to build a residential rehabilitation centre in East Gippsland was embraced by the community.
Mr Chester said he felt privileged to watch and support Peter and Marg Down, Richard Rijs and their team as they garnered support to realise their vision.
“I’ve also felt enormously proud to be a Gippslander as our community embraced and supported this project to help others in need,” Mr Chester said.
“My involvement in this project will be something of which I will always be proud.”
Odyssey House Victoria Hope Centre has been operating at a maximum of 32 beds to comply with coronavirus restrictions. This will increase by 15 as those restrictions allow.
