AMBULANCE Services Minister Jill Hennessy said Milduras new ambulance branch would help with staff retention and reducing response times. The Minister was in Mildura yesterday, joining acting Ambulance Victoria chief executive Tony Walker in officially opening the new branch, which opened its doors last December. Ms Hennessy said retention was a really significant issue for the ambulance service and the new building would help by assisting with comfort and maintaining a strong team. We want our local paramedics to be comfortable, she said. We know that paramedics work long, difficult, demanding shifts. One of the things that Ive learned travelling around Victoria talking to paramedics is just how important the camaraderie is. We know that we want to do significant work in terms of improving ambulance response times and the wellbeing of paramedics and one of the points that paramedics constantly make to me is the strength of the team at their local branch is really critical. The Mildura branch, which responds to about 600 callouts per month, received a $1.4 million upgrade. The new branch features safer entry and exit points, modernised drug storage and additional night shift beds, as well as a new lounge and kitchen area, offices, locker room and bathrooms. In talking up the need for new facilities, Ms Hennessy said the old facilities had belonged in a retro museum. I understand that the previous digs that the Mildura ambulance paramedics were working in were less than ideal, Ms Hennessy said. Mr Walker said the Ambulance Victoria property team delivered the project on time and within budget. Ambulance Victoria Northern Mallee group manager Steven Fumberger praised local paramedics for managing the transition from the old building. Staff spent between three to six months at a temporary home before the new branch was ready. Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes also attended the opening. Michael DiFabrizio Page 1 of 1 28 Feb 2015 Sunraysia Daily, Mildura VIC