Project director Stuart Landrigan has given the group of dedicated volunteers the nickname explaining “they are the communities voice” during the development stages of the $70.2 million project.

The MHC has been working behind the scenes over the last 18 months conducting a community consultation process, in part to gauge what the community would like included in the new hospital.

To date, 12 organisations and groups have been addressed, totaling around 200 residents, and 143 surveys completed. 

Chair of the MHC, John Bentley, said: “overwhelmingly, people want to see the expansion of specialist services in Mudgee”.

He explained, “this would avoid the travelling associated with having to get to particular services in Dubbo, Bathurst and Orange.”

The issue of adolescent and adult mental health: and the need to address the ageing population is also high on the list.

“Significant concern was also shown for addressing preventative health programs while acknowledging a range of the educational services currently on offer including; palliative care, obesity and drug and alcohol abuse,” he said.

The answer to the question of ‘what special or extra services would you like to see in the new health facility’ is clear, according to Mr Bentley.

“People unsurprisingly echoed what they saw as significant issues as the need for expanded services.”

The services highlighted included; Oncology, dialysis, imaging, end of life care, a wide range of surgical procedures, and access to the latest modern technology.

The survey also asked about the major strength in the local health service, and the main responses recognised the quality of the nursing and medical staff and the high level of care; both at the hospital and community health; and the availability and range of community health programs.

MHC will provide a detailed report to the planning group responsible for the design of the new building.

All residents are encouraged to ‘have a say’ by emailing the Mudgee Health Council at jcbentley@ozemail.com.au.