CONSTRUCTION of a new accommodation hub in Mildura that will benefit Swan Hill cancer patients has begun.
People receiving radiation treatment at Mildura Health Icon Cancer Centre will be able to reside in the Dr Julie Zrna Centre.
The accommodation project was launched in September 2023 with the initial aim of raising $5 million towards the cost of building 10 apartments within the health precinct in Thirteenth Street.
Mildura Health Foundation chair Terry Hill said the level of support the centre had received was “overwhelming”.
“I extend my gratitude to everyone who has supported this project,” Mr Hill said.
“It has been amazing to see significant donations come from our community and beyond.
“People who do not live here but who have a connection to the region have got behind this project just as those who do call the Mallee home have done.
“Raising the $5 million for the build was a milestone moment and to now see works taking place onsite is extremely meaningful, not just for the foundation but for everyone who has supported it and for people across the north-west Victoria and far west New South Wales regions who have been touched by cancer and understand the impact the Dr Julie Zrna Centre will have.”
Local builder JAAG was awarded the contract to construct the centre, and director Jim Gowty said his team was committed to delivering the best outcomes on the project.
“Cancer affects all of us, directly or indirectly and because of this we saw the Mildura Health Foundation project as vitally important for our region,” Mr Gowty said.
“JAAG is proud to be involved in its construction.
“JAAG Professional Builders gives an undertaking to deliver this project punctually and to the highest standard available, because we are acutely aware of the importance of the Dr Julie Zrna Centre for our community and particularly for those receiving treatment for cancer.”
Mr Hill said the foundation was working towards a completion date of June 2025.
With the construction target met, he said the foundation would continue fundraising to help furnish the individual apartments and to cover the ongoing operational costs of the centre.
“Our aim from the outset was to provide this accommodation with little to no out-of-pocket expenses for the patients who utilise it,” Mr Hill said.
Donations can be made at www.mhfoundation.com.au
