23 Mar 2018 Wangaratta Chronicle, Wangaratta VIC (General News) THE announcement of $6.9 million funding from the State Government for stage two of the Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) redevelopment will be a milestone remembered for decades to come. It completes $22 million in funding from the Andrews Government to the local health service in just 12 months and will realise the hopes and dreams of NHW chief executive officer Margaret Bennett, her board and staff and the 90,000 residents the health service caters for. The speedy allocation of stage 2 funding will enable that work to be carried out in conjunction with stage one redevelopment, which has just commenced, bringing significant benefits in cost and delivery. It will not only consolidate NHW as Wangarattas largest and one of its most secure employers it strengthens Wangaratta and district as an ideal place to live. The benefit to locals and visitors of having one of regional Australias most competent and well-resourced hospitals located here is not only good for everyones health its a massive economic boost to the region. When people look to locate somewhere, whether its to retire, start a business or for the increasing number of tree changers, a strong health service is one of the key attractions. While credit must go to NHW for its tenacity and professionalism in applying for the funding, praise must also be given to local Upper House member Jaclyn Symes (MLC, Northern Victoria) who has consistently supported NHWs applications and lobbied the Health Minister and Premier for the extra dollars. A similar announcement now for the Wangaratta District Specialist School would certainly make 2018 a year to remember.Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.