McCurdy supports councils’ call for Cobram dialysis unit

The Nationals Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, has welcomed the joint advocacy by Moira and Berrigan Shire Councils to establish local dialysis services in Cobram, labelling it a vital step forward in addressing regional health inequality.

Mr McCurdy, who has long championed improved access to dialysis services in northern Victoria, praised the collaboration and said a permanent dialysis unit in Cobram is “well overdue”.

“Regional Victorians deserve the same access to life-saving treatment as those in Melbourne,” Mr McCurdy said.

“For too long, Cobram residents have had to endure hours of travel to access dialysis in Shepparton, Albury or Wagga. That’s simply unacceptable.”

In February, Mr McCurdy met with NCN Health to discuss local health priorities, including the urgent need for a dialysis unit in Cobram. He said the joint council discussion paper, expected by May, is an encouraging sign that momentum is growing.

“I commend Berrigan and Moira councils for working together across state borders to drive this discussion.

Health issues don’t stop at the Murray, and neither should our advocacy.”

Mr McCurdy also acknowledged the tireless work of the Kidney Support Group Cobram and District, led by founder Dianne Raco and Sue Duscio.

“The community is crying out for a six-chair facility at Cobram Hospital. I’ll continue to stand alongside our residents and grassroots organisations to ensure this project gets the funding and attention it deserves.”

Labor can't manage healthcare, and regional Victorians are paying the price.