New rehabilitation facility opens in Central Queensland

Queensland’s first purpose-built public residential rehabilitation centre for drug and alcohol addiction has officially opened in Rockhampton.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk thanked the strong advocacy of local members Keppel MP Brittany Lauga and Rockhampton MP Barry O’Rourke for making the new $16.26 million facility a reality.

“It’s called Binbi Yadubay which, in the language of the traditional landowners the Darumbal people means healthy beginnings,” the Premier said.

“No Queenslander should have to battle their addiction alone. They deserve the chance to be free from their addiction to have a healthy beginning.

“The 42-bed centre is the first in Queensland to offer withdrawal, rehab, and family units, and will work alongside nineteen other service locations that will be delivered across the state.

“I know local MPs have been advocating for this facility for a long time, particularly Brittany Lauga and I want to thank her for championing this project which will ultimately save lives.

“I also implore any Queenslander who is suffering with an addiction or is working to help a loved one through the rehabilitation process to contact the Binbi Yadubay facility and talk to someone about the options available to them.”

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath said the facility was delivering high-quality free support services to people suffering with drug or alcohol addiction.

“We know this facility will not only be an incredible support to residents, but also their families, and I would especially like to thank Lives Lived Well for their operation of the facility and for their continued dedication to the rehabilitation of Queenslanders,” the Minister said.

“Professional support is the key to long-term rehabilitation from addiction, and the facility will be staffed 24/7 by a range of specialists who can provide effective, evidence-based support and care.

“Importantly, this is a voluntary and free service for Queenslanders to come forward and get the assistance they need when they are ready to make a positive change in their lives.”

Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga said the facility would help save lives in Central Queensland.

“Too many of us have come to know a friend, a family member, or a member of our community who has irreparably damaged or even lost their life to addiction,” Ms Lauga said.

“Before this was available, the nearest support facility was Mackay or the Sunshine Coast.

“It’s so important the Rockhampton and surrounding communities will have access to world-class facilities closer to home for the rehabilitation of those suffering with addiction.

“It’s essential we not only provide the space for rehabilitation, but also create the support networks in our community to encourage and facilitate change.”

Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said this was an important facility for the community and part of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to tackle drugs.

“Drug and alcohol addiction is not only crippling to the individual suffering, but also to their family, friends, and the community as a whole,” he said.

“Tackling drugs and addiction is complex and requires all levels of government, industry, communities, families and individuals.

“I’m proud the Palaszczuk Government has been able to deliver this important facility for those trying to break the cycle.”

Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service Board Chair Paul Bell added he was delighted to see Central Queenslanders already benefiting from this vital new service.

“This wonderful service is much-needed in our community and will complement the great work already done by CQ Health’s alcohol and other drugs team, who work in close partnership with Lives Lived Well,” Mr Bell said.

“Our Board is very proud to have the state’s first purpose-built public residential rehabilitation service right here in Central Queensland, and we thank the Queensland Government for recognising and filling this gap.”

The Binbi Yadubay Residential Rehabilitation and Withdrawal Management Service in Rockhampton commenced operation on 6 December 2021.

For enquiries about accessing these services, contact the service provider Lives Lived Well by phone on 1300 727 957 or visit their website.

ENDS

Media contact: Jack Harbour – 0419 620 447