Who are 'Spike' and 'Jabba'? They might sound like characters from a sci-fi film, they are in fact the playful names given to two vans deployed by Western NSW Health around the region to boost vaccinations.
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The two aforementioned vans were rolled out at Walgett on Wednesday, October 13 and will visit around 20 additional locations across the District next week alone, offering first and second doses of Pfizer.
Scott McLachlan, WNSWLHD Chief Executive, said the addition of 'Spike' and 'Jabba' will help further increase access to vaccines, particularly in areas which may not have had dedicated clinics previously.
"From our pop-up clinics and vaccination hubs, to drive-through clinics and the Australian Defence Force's efforts, we've put everything into our vaccination efforts recently and this is another great addition," Mr McLachlan said.
"Our vaccination vans started their trip across the District in Walgett on Wednesday and were very well-received, accounting for around half of the total vaccinations that were administered there that day.
"They'll split up and head to Tooraweenah and Eumungerie on Monday before visiting some of the very small, remote communities in our District to ensure those people have the best access to vaccines possible.
"Jabba and Spike will offer first and second doses of Pfizer and will operate as walk-up services - they'll pull up in town and anyone from the age of 12 and above can come and get their vaccination.
"If you're coming along to get a second dose, just make sure you bring proof of your first vaccination so our team can ensure there's been enough time between doses.
The vans will be visiting around 20 locations like Geurie, Sofala, Hill End, Elong Elong and Cudal next week, and they'll continue covering the District in the couple of weeks following that as well.
They'll be pulling in at Lake Canobolas (Saturday 23 October), Burrendong Dam (Saturday 23 October) and Ben Chifley Dam (Sunday 24 October) too, so if you're out camping or fishing, take the chance to get vaccinated at the same time.
Jabba and Spike's full schedules are being finalised and we'll be releasing those on the WNSWLHD website and our social media platforms as well, so keep your eyes open.
For more information on COVID-19 vaccination visit: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/
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