Construction begins on Mt Tamborine ambulance station

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts today turned the first sod at the site for the new $1.986 million dollar Mt Tamborine Ambulance station.

Located on a former avocado orchard and next-door to the current QAS site, the new station is expected to be up and running by February 2009.

“This investment represents the future of Queensland Ambulance Service in the region and the Bligh Government’s ongoing commitment to providing first-class emergency services across the state,” Mr Roberts said.

The new facility will replace the existing station which was constructed 33 years ago.

Mr Roberts said the new station will ensure the people of Mt Tamborine continue to receive the highest level of service from QAS for many years to come.

“With the Tamborine Mountain area growing in population, the Queensland Government is committed to ensuring locals have access to the very best in emergency services.

“That means making sure our hard-working and dedicated paramedics have all the tools they require.

“When completed this station will house the most up-to-date facilities and technology available.

“As part of the project, a new two-way communications tower will also be built providing critical radio communications support from the Gold Coast Area to Ipswich Area of the South Eastern Region.”

Mr Roberts also presented two brand new LIFEPAK 12 defibrillators with a total value of more than $37,000.

“I’m also delighted to hand over to Tamborine Mountain Paramedics two $18,800 LIFEPAK 12 defibrillators, one of which was raised through the efforts of the Tamborine Mountain Local Ambulance Committee.

“The second defibrillator has been purchased for the station by QAS.

Tamborine Mountain Local Ambulance Committee (LAC) president John Starkey said combined donations from the Lions Club, the Tamborine Mountain Residents Association and a grant from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund to purchase one of the defibrillators.

“We actively encourage the local community to support the QAS, and we have been fundraising for the replacement defibrillators for the last three years,” Mr Starkey said.

“It’s certainly not difficult to get community support for the ambulance service in this area. QAS paramedics are held in very high esteem here and their work is greatly appreciated.”

Mr Roberts said the Queensland Government is investing a record $455 million in the QAS in 2008-09, including a capital works of budget of $31.2 million.

Media contacts – Brendan Connell – 3247 8194.