Former Ford factory site being considered for COVID vaccination hub
Authorities are eyeing one of Geelong’s most iconic locations as a potential vaccination hub to help deliver the COVID-19 jab to the masses.
Geelong
Don't miss out on the headlines from Geelong. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Authorities are eyeing the former Ford factory site as a vaccination hub to deliver the COVID-19 jab to the masses.
State Health Minister Martin Foley was questioned about the potential of using the former engine manufacturing site as a possible vaccination hub on Wednesday, but was scant on detail, saying only that the state was working with the federal government on locations.
“This is a live discussion every day,” Mr Foley said.
“We are working with local government, with the Commonwealth, with primary health networks, with our own health networks.
“This will be, led by the Commonwealth, the biggest logistical exercise in Australia’s medical history.”
The Victorian health department failed to answer questions when asked to confirm the former Ford factory was being considered as a potential vaccination hub.
However, further detail on the rollout is expected to be released soon.
The industrial landmark is not believed to be slated for use during the first phase of the vaccine rollout, which will see high-priority groups, including frontline high-risk healthcare and quarantine workers, vaccinated.
It’s understood vaccinations may not take place at the former Ford site for some months under the plan.
The first vaccines in the region are expected to be distributed within weeks, with vaccinations expected to start as early as next week in some parts of Australia.
Now known as Fortek Geelong, the Pelligra Group has worked developing the Norlane site into a scalable, multipurpose industrial park.
The Pelligra Group acquired the site in 2019, after Ford ceased manufacturing in Geelong in 2016.
The Pelligra Group and Barwon Health would not comment on speculation about the former Ford site being considered for use as a vaccination hub.
Meanwhile, a former school hall on Myers Street, now known as the St Mary’s Library and Research Centre, is understood to be part of the vaccine rollout plan for the first phase.
The vaccine rollout in the region will initially involve the Pfizer vaccine.
MORE NEWS
ALLEGED LEOPOLD SEX CREEP FREED ON BAIL
VIDEO: MOTORBIKE FIRE ERUPTS IN GEELONG CBD
20YO THIEF SPARED ADULT PRISON AFTER CRIME SPREE
Originally published as Former Ford factory site being considered for COVID vaccination hub
Chris Martin invites Geelong superfans up on stage
A Coldplay superfan from Geelong has described the magical moment she was invited on stage by Chris Martin.
GCA1 wrap: Tons galore as four go large, quick tears through Joeys
There was plenty of runs for the batters in GCA first grade, with four reaching triple figures. Plus, Grovedale is on its way to a win thanks to the return of a star.