Last night's Nationals forum in Tumut was used as a platform to lobby for a renal unit...
“We were told we couldn't have a dialysis unit in Tumut for less than six patients...now we've gone last that.”
“My husband, Ted travels to Wagga three times a week for dialysis. We desperately need a new one here at Tumut.”
Hosted by State Member for Burrinjuck, Katrina Hodgkinson... retiring member Kay Hull watched on as new Riverina candidate Michael McCormack, Senator Fiona Nash, and senate hopeful Joe Dennis, were questioned by Tumut residents.
The Tumut dialysis committee say they've been spending the past four years, trying to help patients, who travel to Wagga at least three times a week, for treatment.
This woman's husband died, but she's still determined, to reach a successful outcome.
“I'm still on the committee, I'm still fighting for it and it would be wonderful if you could get something going here because I think there's now three or four people travelling.”
Tumut Mayor Trina Thomson says the dialysis issue, is one of a much wider problem.
“I'd like to know what level of commitment to this region because it's not a local issue, this is very much a regional issue, the regional issue is we need to get a good quality base hospital,” Cr Thomson said.
But some residents want the focus drawn back to their community.
“I'm just saying, if you want to get the vote, do something here for these people first, let the big boys look after Wagga hospital.”
The Riverina candidate says health services are stretched, in regional and rural areas, across the electorate.
“We need this service, it's not just Tumut, it's other places as well. But, you have my word that I will do everything I can so that your prayers are answered,” Mr McCormack said.
Source: http://www.wintv.com.au/south_west_tablelands/news/item/33151