This Rudd Labor Government Budget commitment of funding was announced in Bombala by a very pleased Federal Member for Eden-Monaro, Mike Kelly last week.

An excited group gathered at the Bombala Hospital on Thursday, May 14 to welcome the MP, with representatives of the local health service, the hospital auxiliary and the Bombala Council all being present to hear the announcement.

Bombala Council Mayor, Bob Stewart formally welcomed Dr Kelly and introduced him to the group, taking the opportunity himself to once again acknowledge all those who have contributed to the establishment of the Bombala Health Service.

Dr Kelly himself had missed Parliament on the day to fly to Bombala and make the announcement, being very pleased to reveal that both the surgery fit out and the doctor accommodation had been funded.

In the lead up work to securing the funding, it had appeared that only the surgery fit-out would be supported, so Dr Kelly was obviously thrilled with the result he had helped achieve for Bombala.

The MP said this funding will be of benefit for health professionals in Bombala now and in the future, with the fit-out and construction of the home to take place later this year.

“This funding of more than $260,000 will provide a vital boost to health services in Bombala and the surrounding area,” Dr Kelly said.

“The funding will be used to fit-out the GP rooms at the new Bombala MPS to ensure health professionals can continue to practise in the region. In addition, accommodation will be built to house a doctor and his or her family.

“The improved services and accommodation will make it easier to attract doctors to Bombala in the future.

“It will support local jobs, and our hardworking nurses, doctors and other health professionals.

“This is a huge win for the people of the Bombala region. Bombala will now have an ideal health structure to support the population and encourage growth.

“I’m delighted to announce this critical initiative for the Bombala community.

“I would also like to pay tribute to local GP Colin Pate for his commitment to the health and welfare of the people of Bombala and for bearing with us so long under extremely trying circumstances,” said Dr Kelly.

The MP also acknowledged the commitment of the local health service in general, and the hospital auxiliary.