Community Victory: Future of Pathology Services Secured in Narrabri

Published on 21 June 2024

Narrabri Shire Council has welcomed the announcement from the NSW Health Minister regarding pathology services at Narrabri Hospital.

Following intense pressure from the community, Health Minister Ryan Park has today announced that on-site laboratories will operate at both Moree and Narrabri hospitals. In addition, pathology staff will continue to work within their local communities.

Narrabri Shire Mayor Cr Darrell Tiemens has said all credit must go to the community leaders.

“I want to thank the entire community for their tireless efforts on this front, and I want to make special mention to Sarah Gleeson, Dr Gottke, Liz Murphy, Russell Stewart, Patricia Hadley, Dr Rohana, and Ian Schweitzer,” said Cr Tiemens.

“The community-led petition has collected over 6100 signatures, over 500 people attended a recent community meeting, and hundreds of emails have been sent alongside countless phone calls.

“The community have risen to this challenge with dogged determination and spirit. It has been their unified front that has driven this good news. Additionally, I want to thank Local Member Roy Butler for his concerted efforts.”

Despite the announcement to maintain pathology services, Mayor Tiemens continues to call for an independent inquiry into Hunter New England Health and the restoration of complete clinical services at Wee Waa and Boggabri Hospitals.

“Hunter New England Health’s lack of transparency and communication has caused significant unrest and angst amongst the communities, but it has also cost Hunter New England Health,” said Cr Tiemens.

“They now have to rebuild the trust of the community, and I look forward to their response to conducting an independent inquiry”.