Maureen the Crane Arriving this Weekend
The first tower crane has been given an official name ahead of its arrival on the site of the Andrews Labor Government’s massive $595 million Ballarat Base Hospital redevelopment.
The 43-metre high crane has been named after Maureen Woodford to honour her significant contribution to healthcare in the Ballarat community.
Grampians Health staff nominated the local icon and longstanding volunteer, who has been a familiar and friendly face at the Ballarat Regional Integrated Cancer Centre and welcoming patients and their families to the hospital for almost 15 years.
‘Maureen’ the crane will soon become a prominent feature in Ballarat’s skyline for the next year as construction continues on the redevelopment’s new central energy plant and support services building on Drummond Street.
The crane is set to arrive in Ballarat this weekend, where it will be erected on the site with the assistance of a large mobile crane. To ensure the safety of the public, the two- day process will require the temporary closure of Drummond St.
More than 8,200 tonnes of soil and rock have been removed from the site as foundation works continue. The arrival of the tower crane paves the way for structure and façade works to begin.
Construction of stage two is expected to be completed in late 2024, supporting more than 170 construction jobs.
Delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA), the Ballarat Base Hospital redevelopment will have the capacity to treat at least 18,000 more emergency patients and an extra 14,500 inpatients per year following completion in 2027.
Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of Grampians Health Services. We are indebted to them for their kindness and generosity. To honour Maureen, who is such an outstanding volunteer, is well earned recognition, for the high regard with which we hold her.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eureka Michaela Settle
“Our volunteers are an integral part of the Ballarat Base Hospital, and we couldn’t deliver the quality services we do without their help. Today we are celebrating Maureen’s work.”
Quote attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett
“Whether it’s a friendly face greeting you at the hospital entrance or being supported through your cancer treatment, Maureen is always there to support patients and we cannot thank her enough.”