Creation of the region’s much-needed cancer centre is forging ahead with the facility being included in the master plan for the next stages of redevelopment at the Dubbo Hospital.
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The federal government, which pledged $25 million for the centre during the mid-year election campaign, has sent a letter to the NSW government confirming the money will be provided. The total cost estimate is at least $50 million.
While they are just two more steps in reaching the goal – a fully-integrated cancer centre providing treatment to cancer victims spread across Western NSW – they are significant milestones.
The centre, which has been on the region’s must-have list for 10 years or more, is slowly moving from a wish to solid brick and mortar reality.
It will have its own dedicated space in the hospital.
The progress will be welcomed and highly appreciated by cancer sufferers who have had to get treatment a long way from home in places like Orange or Sydney. The travel, separation from family and expense were further ordeals for people already seriously ill.
The centre will end inequity in facilities for sufferers in the region, particularly in the smaller towns and centres.
Great credit is due to the Dubbo West Rotary Club which started a major community campaign for the centre earlier this year.
Federal MP Mark Coulton, Dubbo MP and NSW Deputy Premier Troy Grant and a wide range of organisations, groups and individuals joined the push.
The combined efforts have made it real.
All involved deserve recognition and gratitude for a magnificent outcome.
Meanwhile, cancer will be a focus at the Orana Relay for Life being held in Dubbo from today. The relay aims to raise $60,000 for Cancer Council NSW research and support programs.
It recognises people lost to cancer, but is also about “celebration and living life”.
The organisers are calling for residents in the region to join in … “to come together as one big community to bring hope to those who need it and fight back against cancer”.
The Relay has been strongly supported since it started in Dubbo in 2002 and residents should ensure that continues.
As the cancer centre success shows, it only takes a few good men and women with drive and generosity to improve the lives of many.
