Temporary clinic provides health boost to flood-stricken Wujal Wujal

The opening of a temporary clinic means residents of flood ravaged Wujal Wujal can access in-community healthcare for the first time since ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.

The new temporary clinic has allowed some health services to return to Wujal Wujal. Picture: Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service

The opening of a temporary clinic means residents of flood ravaged Wujal Wujal can access in-community healthcare for the first time since ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper hit in December last year.

From Monday, locals have been able to receive treatment for minor injuries such as sprains at the newly-opened clinic.

The range of services on offer will be scaled up over the next fortnight to include GP services, specialist clinics and ultrasound services.

Nurses have already returned to the clinic, with GPs, allied health staff and midwives to follow by the end of April.

The new temporary clinic has allowed some health services to return to Wujal Wujal. Picture: Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service

Newly-appointed mayor Alister Gibson, who was elected in March, said the reopening of a healthcare facility was a vital step in getting Wujal Wujal back on its feet.

Most residents of the southern Cape York community have yet to return having been evacuated due to the flooding.

“Access to health care inside the community is essential and has been a key

requirement to enable community members to return home,’’ Cr Gibson said.

“On behalf of Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council and the entire community I want

to personally thank the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, along with all

those who have worked hard to make this possible.”

New mayor Alister Gibson heralded the opening of the new clinic as an important step for the community. Picture: Rick Moyer

Clinics have been taking place in Cooktown, an hour and a half away from Wujal Wujal, since the old Primary Health Care Centre was heavily damaged by the flooding which followed Jasper, the wettest tropical cyclone in Australian history.

Services which require larger equipment such as X-rays and dental care will continue to be unavailable due to size limitations of the temporary health service, which will have four consultation rooms and two emergency beds.

The challenge of evacuating more seriously ill patients to Cooktown or further afield has been made easier by the recent reopening of a helipad at the former health centre.

Flood damage at the Wujal Wujal Primary Health Care Centre's staff accommodation. Picture: Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service

Wujal Wujal Primary Health Centre director of nursing Vince Connellan spoke of his excitement at being able to welcome patients into the new clinic.

“All staff and I are extremely excited to be opening our new clinic and returning to

work in Wujal Wujal,’’ Mr Connellan said.

“We look forward to welcoming back all our regular clients and new.”

“Many blessings and thanks to the plethora of agencies, staff and contractors who made this possible. Everyone has been working extremely hard to achieve the return of health services to Wujal Wujal and surrounding communities.

“These communities can now feel safe to return home and also feel confident that

services are finally back close to home where they belong.”

Originally published as Temporary clinic provides health boost to flood-stricken Wujal Wujal