Foundation on mission for supplies

provide and in addition to current money raised.”

The foundation has already raised almost $670,000. These funds will be used for baby ventilators, humidifiers, infusion pumps, syringe drivers, ultrasounds, defibrillators, vital signs monitors, high flow oxygen machines and 100 mattresses.

Foundation chief executive officer Tony Williamson said orders for the equipment had already been placed.

“We now have a new list from the health service where they’ve identified equipment not just for Cairns but also for Mossman, Mareeba, Atherton, Yarrabah, Babinda, Innisfail and Tully hospitals,” he said.

“While the State Government has provided significant funding, community support can provide additional medical and intensive care equipment that will have far reaching benefits to all in the Far North.

“Delivering this list of urgent equipment will help ensure we have the best care possible for our communities.”

To donate, call 4226 6327 now or see www.fnqhf.org.au/ coronavirus

AN INNISFAIL aged care home is in lockdown after the first cases of COVID-19 within the Cassowary Coast local government area.

Warrina Innisfail went into lockdown at midnight on Thursday but the two cases are not at the centre.

A memo from Warrina Innisfail chief executive Peter Roberts informed staff that the first Cassowary Coast case triggered the lockdown, which was designed to protect 145 residents plus staff from the coronavirus.

“The closure is the next stage of our virus management plan,” he said. “Please be assured that Warrina Innisfail has no confirmed cases of COVID-19.”

Hill MP Shane Knuth said he had heard from a senior Queensland Health official that two people had tested positive to the coronavirus.

“Queensland Health has confirmed two cases, however it has not gone through the verification process,” he said.

The two cases are the first for the Cassowary Coast, while two more in the Far North brings the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service total to 28.