Six new Emergency Department bays come online at Townsville Hospital

Six new bays have come online in Townsville Hospital’s Emergency Department, Premier Anna Bligh and Health Minister Stephen Robertson announced today.

Premier Bligh promised the new bays would be up and running by today on a tour of Townsville Hospital during Community Cabinet last week.

“We promised the people of Townsville six new Emergency Department bays by today, and we’re delivering on that promise,” Ms Bligh said.

“These new bays will deliver a real boost to the hospital’s busy Emergency Department, where presentations continue to outstrip population growth year-on-year.

“This is part of a major $94 million redevelopment of Townsville Hospital which will deliver a major expansion of health services for local residents.

“Works are continuing on a new ward which will see a further 30 beds come online by peak season this year.

“We’re getting on with the job of creating more beds and delivering enhanced facilities to give Townsville residents the health facilities they expect and deserve.”

Mr Robertson said the Townsville Hospital redevelopment, including a new 4-story wing and an expanded Emergency Department, would deliver 100 extra beds by peak season 2011.

“This major redevelopment of Townsville Hospital is on track and on budget,” he said. "Importantly, it will create the equivalent of almost 500 full-time jobs during the life of the project.

“It’s part of the Bligh Government’s $6 billion health capital works program which is delivering all Queenslanders first class health facilities, no matter where they live.”

8 February 2009

Contacts Minister Robertson’s office on 3234 1190