Queensland Minister for Health Cameron Dick

New Kitchen Served Up At Warwick Hospital

Victor P Taffa

Warwick Hospital’s new $1.4 Million kitchen was officially opened this week, with the new facility already producing around 260 meals a day.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Cameron Dick welcomed the upgraded facility, which was funded by Queensland Health.

“Having a larger working space, new equipment, walk-in freezers and air-conditioning is certainly a more productive environment for the kitchen team to work in.” Minister Dick said.

“It’s a fresh-cook kitchen which provides meals to patients in all the hospital wards as well as residents at The Oaks Nursing Home.”

“I commend the team for working in the temporary kitchen while construction was underway to continue to provide meals to patients and residents over the 14-week construction period.”

“Maintaining the kitchen as a fresh-cook facility is great for the local economy as local suppliers are used to source the meat, fruit and vegetables and other products needed.” Minister Dick said.

Darling Downs Hospital and Health Board members Dr. Ross Hetherington and Ms. Marie Pietsch were on hand to perform the official opening.

“New facility is a welcome addition to the hospital and it has the capacity to produce more meals if needed.” Dr. Hetherington said.

“Warwick Hospital is looking after more patients locally as facilities and medical workforce capabilities improve.”

“It’s important that patients eat well while they are in hospital and all menus are designed in consultation with dieticians to ensure ample portion sizes and stringent nutritional requirements are met.” Dr. Hetherington said.

Ms. Pietsch said the Board had also committed $3 Million funding to upgrade Warwick Hospital’s emergency department.

“This expansion will also be very much welcomed as there are more than 50 people who need treatment every day at the ED.” Ms. Pietsch said.

“Works will improve patient flow through the department and working conditions for staff, with the redevelopment also designed to incorporate space for increased capacity when needed.”

“We are currently in the design phase with some preliminary works happening later this year and construction expected to start in the new year.” Ms. Pietsch said.

“This investment in infrastructure at Warwick Hospital demonstrates our commitment to the best possible patient experience while at our facility.”

“We are looking forward to the new kitchen delivering healthy, tasty meals prepared by the experienced kitchen team.” Ms. Pietsch said.