A significant milestone in the future of local healthcare was marked on 6 April 2026, with a sod turning ceremony held at the rear of Glen Innes Hospital to formally commence the long-awaited redevelopment project.
The event brought together health officials, community representatives, staff and supporters, all united in celebrating the transition from planning to construction after an extended period of anticipation.
Proceedings began with a Welcome to Country delivered by Jacqui Burns, followed by a smoking ceremony conducted by Daniel Cutmore.
The redevelopment represents a thoughtful integration of new infrastructure with parts of the hospital that are now approaching 70 years of age. Designed as a staged upgrade, the project will deliver key improvements including a modern ambulance bay, upgraded lift access, enhancements to the Emergency Department, and a new mortuary facility. These additions aim to improve both patient care and operational efficiency while ensuring the facility remains functional throughout the construction process.
A number of invited guests addressed the gathering, reflecting both the challenges faced in bringing the project to this point and the shared commitment to its completion. Amanda Bock, Executive Director of Health Infrastructure, spoke of the importance of investing in regional health services and acknowledged the persistence required to progress the redevelopment.
Kylie Whitford of Hunter New England Health and Hospital Manager Emma Clifton Smith also welcomed the commencement of works, highlighting the benefits the upgrades will bring to staff, patients and the broader community. Rodney Matterson, represented the construction firm TCQ the successful tenderer.
Local representation included the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, who joined hospital staff and members of the Hospital Auxiliary in marking the occasion. The presence of the Auxiliary was a reminder of the long-standing community support that has contributed to the hospital’s development over many decades.
The sod turning symbolised more than the beginning of construction—it reflected a shared sense of progress and optimism. With works now underway, the redevelopment is set to deliver modern, fit-for-purpose facilities that will support the health and wellbeing of the Glen Innes community well into the future.
