The Liberal-National government in NSW has ignored the wishes of Alstonville-Wollongbar residents and the expert opinions of paramedics with its lacklustre response to a request for a full time ambulance station for Alstonville.
“The response I have received is very disappointing and not good enough for our growing community,” said Tamara Smith, Member for Ballina.
“I spoke to the Health Minister Brad Hazzard about the need for an ambulance station in Alstonville to support the population on the Plateau. He said he would look at the information I have received from ambulance officers and the desire of the community to have a dedicated crew on call rather than having to wait for ambulances from Lismore or Ballina to respond.
“The response I have received from the NSW Government is that the status quo is fine and that demand for services in the area will continue to be monitored.
“Alstonville and Wollongbar have a combined population of over 8,000 residents, while towns with similar or smaller populations like Yamba and Maclean have their own ambulance stations and paramedics.
“I think the residents of Alstonville and Wollongbar need the same level of care,” said Ms Smith.
Petition
The people of Alstonville and surrounding areas have indicated their support for an ambulance station with more than 300 people signing a petition so far.
Please sign Tamara's petition and if you have already, thank you and pass it on to friends and family.
It is available at www.tamarasmith.org.au/ambulance
Letter of response from NSW Government
