New cancer care centre opened

The official opening of Wonthaggi Hospital’s new cancer care centre last week was described as a “heartfelt moment” by one politician.

Another said it was an “emotional experience”.

All agreed the new Integrated Care Centre – also known as The L. Rigby Centre – was a “momentous day for Bass Coast”.

Three years in the making, the centre for the first time offers local resident cancer treatments supplied by Alfred Health including oncology, haematology, breast care and surgery, chemotherapy for most cancers, blood and iron infusions, and holistic nursing care including McGrath Foundation Breast Care Nurse.

Bass Coast Health CEO Jan Child said in the next 12 months new services will include further treatment including skin, bladder and lung cancers. A survivorship program will also be developed as well as expanded palliative care.

“There has always been significant demand for local cancer services in Bass Coast,” Ms Child said.

“Patients needing comprehensive cancer care had to travel, sometimes every day for weeks at a time, to Melbourne or Traralgon.”

The centre was built with $1.46 million from the Federal government, as well as $2.2 million in state government funding for ongoing costs. The Commonwealth funds were supported by a substantial and generous donation of $850,000 from Lawrence, Doreen and Lorelei Rigby.

Local groups such as the Phillip Island Health Hub Auxiliary have also contributed about $245,000 for furniture and equipment.

Phillip Island resident and nurse Kirsten Weinzierl said she knew the need for the Integrated Care Centre as a Bass Coast Health staff member, but she also recognised the need on a personal level. 

Several years ago, Kirsten’s husband Rob was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer and her mother died of the same cancer when she was a teenager.

“The unforeseen costs of travelling back and forth to the city for treatment were incredible,” Kirsten said, estimating it to be about $70,000 including fuel, food, accommodation and loss of income.

“The travel also had a huge impact on the wellbeing of their family. Our son was 14 at the time. We had to organise care while Rob was having treatment in Melbourne; it was a very difficult time in our life.”

Rob’s treatment was successful, and he is now well, with early diagnosis crucial.

Patients wishing to receive their treatment locally should discuss a referral with their GP or specialist.