Two stalwarts recognised

The January meeting of the Woy Woy Hospital Alliance opened on a solemn note as members stood silently in remembrance of Mr Brian Neville who died earlier in the month.

"Despite Brian's disability as a double amputee, he worked courageously and tirelessly for the Alliance," according to president Mr Ivan Kinny.

Mr Neville died in the knowledge and satisfaction that a new rehabilitation unit was to be built, he said.

Members suggested that a ward in the new unit might be named after him, in view of his admirable life and work and the fact that he had been the last patient in the previous unit.

The Health Ministry had been approached with the suggestion, Mr Kinny said.

Another stalwart in the battle to rectify what members have called the Great Blunder of 2008, Mr Edward James was made a Life Member of the Alliance.

The citation on the framed parchment presented to Mr James read: "In admiration and gratitude for his fervent concern for social justice and integrity in public administration and his vigorous, innovative and generous efforts in pursuit of these ideals."

"He has been an inspiration to his fellow members and a leading contributor to the progress of the Alliance.

"By his enterprise, we are nearer our goal."

Mr Kinny said members were delighted to be able to view the plans for the new building.

Set in the northern grounds, it would contain 30 beds and the full range of services for patients, staff and visitors required to administer and operate a modern hospital facility.

The expected completion date is mid next year.

Future meetings of the Alliance will be held on the second Saturday of each month at 2pm in St Luke's Church Hall in Woy Woy.

Media Release, 29 Jan 2012 Ivan Kinny, Woy Woy Hospital Alliance