mmg.com.au

Work on the new Deniliquin Hospital maternity unit started yesterday.

Murrumbidgee Health Rural Group Manager — Border, Rosemary Garthwaite, said the successful contractor, Total Construction of Sydney, would engage local tradesmen for the project.

‘‘The maternity unit upgrade will support the new midwifery-led model of maternity care with local GP obstetricians,’’ Mrs Garthwaite said.

The upgrade to the maternity service includes two multi-purpose birthing rooms with birthing baths, nursery, office and additional storage areas.

There will be an opportunity for early discharge, domiciliary midwife visits after discharge from hospital and improved links between expectant mother and midwife.

Member for Murray-Darling John Williams has welcomed the start of construction.

Mr Williams said the $720,000 project was being funded by the NSW State Government through the Rural Health Minor Works Program.

‘‘This project demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to the Deniliquin community of providing a high standard of maternity services,’’ he said.

‘‘There has been criticism in the past that maternity services in Deniliquin were under threat. I am pleased to say that this project ensures the on-going availability of these services.

‘‘Local mothers can rest assure that birthing services will continue in the Deniliquin community.’’

Total Construction specialises in the design and construction of commercial and industrial projects throughout Australia. The company was founded in 1995 and employs about 100 staff with a national turnover of around $100 million.

Work is expected to be completed by the end of April.