Queensland Health offer answers to Tara residents following hospital public consultation

Following a turbulent launch, Queensland Health has answered questions from Tara residents in a public forum regarding the town’s hospital upgrades, and has revealed when the redevelopment will be completed.

After a successful petition started by concerned Tara residents saw the town granted public consultation over the redevelopment of the town’s hospital, Queensland Health has revealed when the upgrades will be completed, along with details of its plans.

A Queensland Health spokesperson said the redevelopment, which was announced as part of the $1.038bin Building Rural and Remote Health Program, is set to be completed by mid-2025 depending on weather.

“It will provide emergency and palliative care and include a 12-bed inpatient unit, as well as adult mental health, clinical and other outreach services,” they said.

“We are working closely with Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service and Western Downs Regional Council on the design and location of the Tara Hospital.”

One of the concerns Tara local Sophie Bougoure had prior to the public consultation held last Thursday was where the expansions would be located, due to the back of the hospital being prone to flooding.

The Queensland Health spokesperson said they had considered a range of environmental factors when determining the location of facilities which included the risk of flooding.

Tara residents have a win following petition for public consultation regarding hospital redevelopment.

“The redevelopment will not impede the current operations of the existing facility,” they said.

“The helipad will remain operational during construction.”

Ms Bougoure, who was responsible for launching the initial petition to see the involvement of community members during the redevelopment process, said she was pleased with how the public forum went.

“We would’ve had 30 community members attend and during that time (Queensland Health) ran through a presentation that was very informative,” she said.

“For me and with starting the petition, I found it really gave us what we were looking for in the first instance.

“Everything that was asked was answered thoroughly, and they provided good explanations. They did such a good job, and took the time to ensure we understood what they were talking about.”

The Queensland Health spokesperson elaborated on the public session, applauding Tara residents for their attendance.

“We were pleased to see so many people attending who were passionate about their local healthcare,” they said.

“It was an opportunity for the community to hear from the project team, learn about the concept designs and ask any questions they had about the redevelopment.”