Signifcant step in $263.8m hospital redevelopment

TIM HOWARD

The decision to convert a section of the old Grafton Jail into an administrative wing for the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment has been a signifcant step forward in planning for the $263.8 million hospital redevelopment.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said the acquisition of the old jail site provided critical new space to support the redevelopment of the hospital.

“This multi-million dollar redevelopment will improve healthcare capacity and ensure the hospital has the best, most up to date models of care for the residents of Grafton and the surrounding communities,” Mr Park said.

He said the redevelopment would improve health outcomes and meet the growing needs of Grafton and surrounding communities.

Clarence MP Richie Williamson has been a champion for the hospital redevelopment before he was elected to NSW Parliament and welcomes the news as evidence of bi-partisan support for the region.

“This redevelopment is vital for ensuring that Grafton Base Hospital meets the growing healthcare needs of our region, and I am delighted that work is progressing with bipartisan support,” Mr Williamson said.

He said the adaptive reuse of the former Grafton Jail site aligns with a conservation management plan to preserve its heritage while providing new, much-needed administrative, offce, and training facilities for Grafton Base Hospital staff.

Mr Williamson further highlighted the economic and community benefts of reactivating this iconic site.

“I commend the NSW Government for acquiring this space for healthcare use and look forward to seeing its transformation beneft our local community.”

In addition to the site acquisition, a Development Application has been approved by the Northern Regional Planning Panel to refurbish two administration blocks within the former minimum-security portion, on the northeastern corner of the jail, to provide contemporary administrative, offce and training support facilities.

Clinical services will remain on the existing Grafton Hospital site.

The former Grafton Jail operated between 1893 and 2020, it was closed following the opening of the new Grafton Correctional Centre in Lavadia.

The former Grafton Jail was added to the state’s Heritage Register in 1999.

The Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper approved of the move.

“The transfer of this part of the subdivided site to NSW Health ensures the Old Grafton Goal doesn’t remain an unused relic,” he said.

“This great outcome enables new uses for this important community asset, while also providing a major economic beneft for the Grafton community.”

The adaptive reuse of a portion of the former jail site aligns with the conservation management plan prepared for the site in 2021, to ensure areas of heritage signifcance within the site are preserved and activated.

Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong said the jail site would remain an iconic place in Grafton.

“We have delivered another important milestone to revitalise and reuse one of our state’s key former correctional centres,” he said.

“Grafton Jail is an iconic place with a somewhat dark history, so it is wonderful we are delivering a positive new chapter that will ensure this monument serves the local community for years to come.”

The main works of the $263.8 million Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment, will deliver a new threestorey acute services building, including a new emergency department, emergency short stay, medical imaging and MRI, and inpatient unit.

The current day surgery and operating suite will be expanded to provide two additional operating theatres, increasing overall capacity.

Construction timeframes for the full redevelopment will be confrmed once planning has been fnalised and a builder has been appointed, with the refurbishment works at the former Jail site expected to start this year.

For more information visit: https://www.hinfra. health.nsw.gov.au/ projects/project-search/ grafton-base-hospitalredevelopment

Volunteer Stories: Rewards Beyond Expectations

The Northern NSW Local Health District is inviting community members to start the new year by becoming Healthcare Helper volunteers, providing vital support to patients, visitors, and healthcare staff at facilities in Lismore, Nimbin, Bonalbo, Urbenville, and Kyogle.

A Meaningful New Year’s Resolution Lismore Base Hospital General Manager Ian Hatton encourages locals to consider volunteering as a way to give back while enhancing their own wellbeing.

“Volunteering is a fantastic New Year’s resolution because it helps others while enhancing your own wellbeing by helping you connect with people,” Mr. Hatton said.

The Healthcare Helpers program, launched in late 2023, has quickly become an integral part of the hospital community, offering roles such as: Greet and Guide

Healthcare Helper: Welcome visitors and assist them in navigating the hospital.

Patient Companion Helper: Provide comfort and companionship to patients, making their hospital stay more enjoyable. A Vital Role in Patient Care Volunteers are especially needed in critical areas, including the acute stroke and dementia unit and surgical wards.

“Our doctors, nurses, and allied health staff deeply appreciate the support volunteers provide,” said Mr. Hatton. “We’re eager to welcome more people from diverse backgrounds to help refect our broader community and make patients feel more at ease.”

Volunteer Stories: Rewards Beyond Expectations

Jonathan Lawrence, a volunteer since 2024, highlights the fexibility and personal satisfaction of the role: “I like being a volunteer as I get to meet a lot of people and feel part of the team. The hours are fexible, and I’m not tied down to a rigid schedule.”

Dorothy Thomas, one of the newest Healthcare Helpers, shared how the experience brings her joy and fulfllment: “Every day is different and good. It’s great seeing the amazing nursing staff working together for patients’ welfare. I love being able to give something extra to patients, like having a chat, making them a cuppa, or even playing cards. It’s a pleasure, and I get back more than I give.” How to Get Involved

Volunteering is fexible and open to people from all walks of life. To apply or learn more, visit the Northern NSW Local Health District’s website at www.nnswlhd. health.nsw.gov. au/get-involved/ volunteering or email nnswlhdvolunteer@health. nsw.gov.au.

It could be said that the Casino RSM Club runs in the blood of Trudy Lamont, who was recently elected unopposed as the frst female president to the board.

“I’ve been a member of the club since I was 18, and I’ve been coming here for as long as I can remember before that,” she said.

“I saw a mailout to members and a call for nominations and when I looked at the existing board, it was a mostly older and male dominated board. I noticed the younger demographic, especially families with young children, weren’t really represented.

“As someone who