Letter to the Editor

31 MAY 2016:

All of Far North Queensland owes an enormous debt of gratitude to the members of our community who have worked tirelessly for the significant boost announced to the Cassowary Coast’s residential aged care places – including 40 extra beds each for Innisfail and 20 more for Tully, as well a capital grant of almost $4 million for Tully.

It’s been not just their determination to work really hard but also their belief – these people not only believed it would happen but were also determined to make it happen!

Warrina is Innisfail’s only aged care facility as well as the largest employer, and the success of their application to enable their $19 million expansion will provide a much-needed and immense boost throughout our community.

Apart from the social and health benefits, the number of extra beds – each worth some $65,000 annually to the Far North Qld economy – just consider the jobs this creates!

North Qld as a whole is falling badly behind – we are informed that the region receives only 300 extra beds on average a year when over 10,000 residents a year should reach 80 years of age.

But far from condemning the Federal Government, we are deeply grateful for this embarrassment of riches and for Minister Ken Wyatt’s involvement.

Sincerely,
Hon Bob Katter MP
KAP Member for Kennedy

PHOTO: Bob Katter cuts a cake with Warrina staff to thank them for their dedication.