Already a brighter 2022…
Much was written about the easing of Covid-19 restrictions and the capacity of the NSW Health system. Ultimately, our modelling of case numbers and capacity held firm. It demonstrated the benefit of the NSW Government having invested several billions of dollars in improving health infrastructure across the state over the past few years, investments like the $50 million Brookvale Community Health Centre which provided an important resource.
I continue to work closely with our local business community. Certainly we welcome the opening of international borders which will reunite family and friends and boost international tourism opportunities. Historically, only 4% of overnight visitors to Manly have been international tourists. This is something we need to do better at.
Former Manly Hospital site update:
People are increasingly interested in the redevelopment of the former Manly Hospital site as the facility takes shape. I recently visited the site with Health Minister, Brad Hazzard. The major concrete pour has occurred and the second floor of the facility is now visible. This marks a significant milestone in the development of the $19.5 million project, dedicated to caring for young people from across NSW with a life-limiting illness.
The facility will provide young people and their families a tranquil, supportive environment at the most difficult of times by providing respite care, counselling, symptom management and end-of-life care. Construction of the facility is due for completion later this year. The remainder
of the site will be converted into a community health and wellbeing precinct.
Vale June Lusk
June Lusk was the first female bus driver in Sydney, entering service in 1970 at the Brookvale Bus Depot. In 2010, June attended a celebration at the Depot to mark the 40th anniversary of female bus drivers at which the Minister for Transport unveiled a plaque in her honour. Aside from her achievements in paving the way for the many female bus drivers that followed, June was an avid Manly Sea Eagles supporter. She passed away on 16 February aged 92. I understand the Sydney Bus Museum is planning to honour June with an exhibition later this year. On behalf of the Manly electorate, our condolences are extended to June’s family, friends and former work colleagues.
Some news you might have missed:
• Marine ecology surveys are underway for both the multi-million dollar upgrade of Manly Wharf 3 and old Aquarium project
• The $3.89 million upgrade of North Head National Park scenic area is nearing completion
• Harbord Kindergarten will get a new upgraded playground
• Northern Beaches Secondary College will receive $31,790 for a new high-tech plasma cutter so they can learn important future trade skills
• Important work to rehabilitate Harbord and Curl Curl Lagoon will continue thanks to a $50,000 grant provided to the Northern Beaches Council
Finally, the Service NSW website has been updated to include all the vouchers, programs, rebates and information to help ease cost of living pressures. There are now more than 70 rebates and savings available whether ‘Dine and Discover’, learn to swim vouchers, or free vehicle registration for drivers who regularly pay tolls.
I will continue to work hard to deliver for our community. If there is anything I can help you with, please don’t hesitate to contact my office.