Coolamon and Harden NSW Ambulance user group including Harden’s Craig Nicholls 3rd from the Right.

Member for Cootamundra Katrina Hodgkinson said the Coolamon and Harden communities are one step closer to having new ambulance stations, with the inaugural user group meeting for the first time to discuss options.

Katrina said the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government had committed to build new stations as part of the $122 million Rural Ambulance Infrastructure Reconfiguration (RAIR) program.

“It’s great to hear the pace is picking up on planning of these projects, which will enhance the delivery of our local ambulance services,” Katrina said.

“The Coolamon and Harden user group is made up of various representatives from local NSW Ambulance staff, who are eager to collaborate on the projects.

“They will provide crucial insights and ensure we are providing the right infrastructure for paramedics and the community.

“They met at Wagga Wagga last week, for the first of three local workshops.

“The NSW Government continues to deliver on our promise to improve paramedic services in rural and regional NSW, under the Rural Ambulance Infrastructure Reconfiguration Program.”

Once built, the new ambulance stations will provide Harden with a much-improved base and Coolamon with their first base.

User group participant, NSW Ambulance Deputy Director of Operations for Southern Zone, Brian White, said: “The user group is a great opportunity for NSW Ambulance to get involved and help design a modern ambulance station fit for future delivery of patient care to the communities of Coolamon and Harden and their surrounding districts.”

“We are excited about the opportunities these new stations will create for both the local communities we serve and our paramedics,” Mr White said.

Construction is expected to begin mid-2016.