WAMS leaps forward

MEDICAL services in the far north west have received a boost with the opening of a new building for the Walgett Aboriginal Medical Service (WAMS) last week.

Parkes MP Mark Coulton, who performed the honours, said the new building looks “absolutely fantastic” as well as being designed to reflect the needs of WAMS and the culture of the Walgett community, but has been built in a way to minimise cracking from soil movement.

“WAMS is a great model. While it’s funded by the state and federal governments, it’s locally-run,

locally-managed and locally-serviced and as a result has been very successful,” Mr Coulton said.

“It’s run by a multi-disciplinary team who looks after the needs of the whole community, from babies right through to the elderly. These services are critical in communities like Walgett, keeping people healthy and out of hospital, and the federal government is committed to supporting it.

“Well done to the whole team at WAMS on this project! I’m sure this new building will service the community of Walgett for years to come.”

Federal Member for Parkes and Regional Health Minister Mark Coulton with WAMS chief executive Christine Corby and chairperson Bill Kennedy at the opening of the new building. PHOTO: SUPPLIED