Former Victorian premier Steve Bracks is a firm believer in the value of Williamstown Hospital.
So much so the Williamstown resident is happy to have become patron of the hospital’s New Heart appeal, which is aimed at raising $2million for upgraded patient and visitor facilities.
Kicking off the appeal, a fundraising concert featuring Kate Ceberano, with Williamstown’s Shaun Micallef as MC, will be held this month on the quay at the Royal Victorian Motor Yacht Club.
More than $1 million has already been raised after a bequest from a former Williamstown patient and locally-based fundraising activities.
Unlike most hospitals, Williamstown Hospital, which opened in 1894, lacks outdoor spaces for patients and visitors.
The appeal is aimed at raising money to build a community hub in the heart of the hospital with courtyards and gardens for patient rehabilitation and exercise.
Mr Bracks said the hospital was a great facility that had served the community of Williamstown and district for a long time.
“I was instrumental when I was the local member and also premier in making sure … it was retained, because it was earmarked for closure and change to a private hospital.
“It’s retained its casualty, it’s retained its operating theatres and it’s now a very effective hospital.
“This appeal is really to look at what other contributions we can make to make it even better, and to look at the integration of the whole hospital with a better facade and better presentation and I’m pleased to be part of the appeal.”
Last year, more than 6000 elective surgeries were performed at Williamstown, including cancer, orthopaedics and gastrointestinal procedures.
All proceeds from the Kate Ceberano concert on March 20 will support the appeal.
Tickets cost $50 for general admission, with seating on the grass or in the clubhouse. Children under 16 will be admitted free. VIP packages are available for $150 per person, which includes drinks, canapes and a balcony view of the stage on the quay. Doors open at 6pm, with the concert starting at 7.30pm
For bookings, visit www.trybooking.com/KJCU. For more information about the concert or appeal, contact Western Health Foundation on 83457660.
