A multi-million dollar expansion to accommodate an extra 50 staff members at Gippsland Lakes Community Health’s (GLCH) Bairnsdale site is underway.
Almost all required demolition work at 66 McCulloch Street is complete and a concrete slab for a two-storey extension in front of the remaining building has been poured.
A slab has also been poured for a new building that will link 66 McCulloch St and 281 Main Street. Next, the structural steel frame and concrete panels will be erected.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the Federal Government was providing $500,000 toward the upgrade in partnership with GLCH.
“The project is being undertaken by local CM and HM Banks Builders and will more than double the existing space,” Mr Chester said.
“There will be more meeting spaces and consulting rooms to support the additional 50 staff needed to meet the growing demand for health, aged and social services in the region.
“Gippsland Lakes Community Health is investing in our community, not only by expanding to support the needs of local people, but by selecting a local builder and supporting local jobs at every opportunity – and for this they should be commended.”
Chief Executive Officer Sue Medson said the project also included the refurbishment of the existing two-storey building in McCulloch Street and the partial refurbishment of the premises at 281 and 283 Main Street.
“We’ve already employed more staff ahead of the completion of the expansion,” Ms Medson said.
“Demand for our services has been growing rapidly, particularly in family violence, and aged and disability services. We’ll need to keep evaluating the positions needed.
“A major benefit of this expansion is that staff can be on one site, instead of commuting between several premises in Bairnsdale.
“Most importantly, we’ll be able to better support the local community, reduce waiting times, and make sure we can provide additional services that are needed.”
The Federal Government is providing $500,000 from the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF), with GLCH sourcing additional funding and providing $500,000 of its own.
