Cairns Hospital is the largest major referral hospital in Far North Queensland, caring for patients from as far north as the Torres Strait, south to the Cassowary Coast. Photo: Queensland Health.
A massive $1 billion hospital upgrade is shaking up healthcare across the Far North – and is set to provide almost 4000 jobs during the height of construction.
Queensland Health has released the tender for the head contractor to deliver the next stage of the Cairns Hospital Expansion.
The expansion is the biggest healthcare investment in the region and a key part of a wider masterplan for Far North services delivery over the next 30 years, according to the State Government.
While some healthcare services can be delivered throughout the Cape and Torres Strait by Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, many in need are referred to Cairns Hospital.
The expansion features four new operating theatres, 16 day surgery spaces, 40 overnight beds, a specialist outpatient department, clinical trials facilities and simulation and training spaces.
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service chief executive Leena Singh said the expansion was transformative for the region’s healthcare.
“This investment will provide additional clinical capacity, modern facilities and new opportunities for innovation, training and research, helping us meet the healthcare needs of Far North Queensland for generations to come,” she said.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls during a visit to Hope Vale. Photo: Supplied.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the release of the tender marked a milestone in strengthening health care services for Far Northern communities.
“The Crisafulli Government is getting on with the job of delivering easier access to health services and the facilities patients, families and health workers deserve,” he said.
Barron River MP Bree James said the project would provide certainty for future healthcare needs.
“This expansion will support local jobs, strengthen healthcare services and ensure local families have access to the care they need in a modern, world-class facility close to home,” she said.
Mulgrave MP Terry James said the investment demonstrated the government’s commitment to the region and would make sure “growing communities have access to the infrastructure they need”.
The tender will remain open until 6 August and it’s expected that a contract will be awarded later this year.
Original Article published by Luke Mortimer on Region Tropical North Queensland.
