Menzies nurse vacany filled
The long vacant Menzies nursing post has finally been filled.
The WA Country Health Service Goldfields population health director Anne Mahony confirmed an "experienced nurse" had been recruited to work Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
The Menzies nursing post has been filled sporadically for two years following long-serving nurse, Sam Mazza's retirement in February 2012.
St John Ambulance's Goldfields regional manager Andrew Hirst said the appointment would be "very welcome" by the town's volunteers.
Mr Hirst said additional pressures had been placed on St John Ambulance volunteers during the transition.
"The volunteers in Menzies have been trying to fill that gap to the best of their ability," he said.
"Obviously that's not our prime focus but it's certainly meant our volunteers have been very busy up there."
Mr Hirst said volunteers worked very hard to provide services to the community.
"They are real true heroes these people," he said.
Shire of Menzies president Greg Dwyer welcomed the appointment but said having a nurse available for seven days was still a priority for the town.
"The community and the Shire are looking for a full-time nurse, taking into account the Goldfields Highway goes straight through Menzies," he said.
With 500 vehicles passing through the town on a daily basis, Mr Dwyer said having a nurse on hand in case of a vehicle accident was critical.
"The likelihood of an accident happening is always in our minds," he said.
Mr Dwyer said population growth in Menzies because of the progression of mining projects west of the town and increased tourist numbers were also contributing factors highlighting the need for a full-time nurse.
"One or two mines going ahead could mean 60 people living in town," he said.
Mr Dwyer said a nurse was vital for the town's elderly residents and those with chronic health problems.
He said the Shire was even willing to foot part of the bill to have a nurse in town more often.
A submission by the Shire to the WACHS Goldfields to cover part of the cost of a full time nursing position was also being considered.
