MORE than 50 years of history was demolished on Monday as paramedics eagerly
await a modern revamp.
Beginning 10.30am, paramedics looked on as their home
away from home — officially opened in 1961 — was torn down and compacted piece
by piece.
“Some guys that have been here 20 years will probably shed a tear,”
acting team manager Robert Lawson said.
“It’s part of the history for the
town, but it’s going to be better for everyone once finished,” paramedic Peter
Salathiel said.
A new station, estimated to cost about $900,000 is expected
to be built within the next four months.
In addition, two Single Responder
Unit (SRU) vehicles will be provided, resulting in a total $1.67 million in
improvements, according to the Victorian Government.
SRU vehicles are not
designed to transport patients, but rather provide quick responses, and back-up
for other ambulances.
Swan Hill’s new station will consist of a four-vehicle
bay garage with external undercover parking, training and study facilities,
kitchen and lounge.
For more of this story, see Wednesday’s Guardian (July 10).
