THE new ambulance station in Urraween will improve response times to areas developing in and around Hervey Bay.

The Queensland Ambulance Service said paramedics based at the station will have quicker access to areas like Booral, River Heads, Dundowran Beach and Craignish.
Crews will also head out to Toogoom and Burrum Heads when required, while also supporting the existing ambulance station in Hervey Bay.
The new facility was officially opened by QAS Deputy Commissioner Dee Taylor-Dutton and Assistant Minister for Health and Regional Health Infrastrucutre Julieanne Gilbert this week.
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Based on Maryborough Hervey Bay Road, opposite the golf driving range, the station allows for crews offering 24-hour rapid response services to access a number of main thoroughfares almost immediately.
QAS said in a brief statement posted to its official Facebook page that the $3.2-million project provided local ambulance officers access to first-class amenities.
Sixteen Advanced Care Paramedics, an Officer-in-Charge and an Indigenous Cadet will all work out of the station.
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Yesterday’s official launch of the ambulance station was preceded by a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony.
“A special mention goes to Aunty Karen Blackman and the Butchulla community for performing a great Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony. Aunty Karen also contributed an impressive Indigenous artwork to the station. This piece depicts the region’s emergency health services and the community they protect,” the post read.
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