Mid-Western Region mines support respiratory clinic with PPE donation

On Wednesday the clinic opened to assess and test patients with mild to moderate COVID-19-like symptoms, reducing pressure on hospital emergency departments and local general practices.

As part of the joint initiative, the region's three mines - Wilpinjong, Ulan Coal and Moolarben - contributed PPE to the clinic. The range of items included hand sanitiser, masks, gloves, overalls, and glasses.

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Wilpinjong general manager, Blair Jackson, said that this is an extension of the industry's efforts to manage during the pandemic, because it employs thousands of people in the community.

"We're already a big part of the response, we've brought in a lot of controls to allow the mines to operate through these challenging times," he said.

"And then to be able to continue on with those protocols locally not only helps the mines be safe, but also the local community as well - where the majority of our workforce resides.

"What we've donated is whatever we can spare, it is fairly tough for us to get it as well, but it's important for the local community that we can get it to the clinic."

Federal Member for Calare and Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education, Andrew Gee, said that Mudgee marked the 100th COVID-19 GP-led facility.

"Mudgee is one of a number of respiratory clinics that have either opened or are opening across the region, which should give our community more peace of mind that they can get tested, safely and efficiently to keep our cases low in the Central West," he said.

"If you have the mild to moderate flu-like symptoms, that may mean coronavirus, so please do the right thing and get tested.

"You'll be doing what's best for your health and the health of others."

The Mudgee Respiratory and Fever Clinic is open to all residents in the Mid-Western Region who are experiencing any respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing or fever.

Patients can make a booking by phoning South Mudgee Surgery on 0417 072 652 or (02) 6372 4355.