First COVID jab delivered today on Sunshine Coast

The spotlight will shine on Sunshine Coast University Hospital today, as frontline staff receive the COVID-19 vaccination marking another highlight in the pandemic response.  

Minister for Health Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath said it was another momentous occasion for the state.

“We expect 125,000 Queenslanders will be offered the vaccine in the very first phase of the vaccine’s rollout, prioritising those who are the most at risk of exposure to the virus,” Ms D’Ath said.

“Our vaccine journey is just beginning and the next step on that journey starts here today on the Sunshine Coast.

“I want to thank those individuals receiving the vaccine in this initial phase for setting a fantastic example for the rest of our community.”

Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said protecting those most at risk of exposure to the virus will make a significant difference in keeping everyone safe.

“We want all eligible Queenslanders to have the best possible protection from COVID-19,” Dr Young said.

“So, when you get the vaccine, it means your symptoms will be less severe compared to someone who isn’t vaccinated. 

“There’s still a long road ahead of us but I know together we can achieve big things and I will be ready to roll up my sleeve, when it’s my turn.”

Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Adjunct Professor Naomi Dwyer said it was a privilege to follow suit in the state’s largest coordinated vaccination effort.

“This is history in the making and to be part of the first phase of rollout is very special,” Adj Prof Dywer said.

“We’ve got our processes and systems ready for this vaccine, and our staff are lining up and keen for the jab.”

Member for Pumicestone Ali King said that the vaccine rollout was welcomed by frontline workers right across the region.

“Many people who call northern Moreton Bay and Sunshine Coast home are a key part of Queensland’s COVID-19 response," she said.

“It’s a huge relief for these frontline workers and their families to know that they will soon be protected by the vaccine.”

Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt said that the administration of the first vaccination on the Sunshine Coast was an important step in keeping the community safe.

“I’m thrilled to see the Sunshine Coast University Hospital starting their first phase of the COVID-19 vaccination program,” he said.

“This is such an important step forward for our community and all of Queensland."

Member for Nicklin Robert Skelton said that people on the Sunshine Coast could stay up to date with the vaccine’s rollout on the COVID-19 Queensland Government website.

“We’ll be keeping the community up to date as we ramp up the vaccine rollout progressively,” said Mr Skelton.

More information on the vaccine is available online: www.qld.gov.au/covid19vaccine  

ENDS

Media contact: Lucy Collier 0409 461 324