Funding for extra paramedic crews and a purpose built ambulance station for Victor Harbor have been confirmed by the new Labor state government.

Former independent candidate for Finniss Lou Nicholson met with new Health Minister Chris Picton on 6 May and received the good word.

“I had read a brief news article alluding to a Labor promise for a new station for Victor Harbor but did not know they had formally committed to it, until Minister Picton confirmed this on Friday,” Ms Nicholson says. 

“I nearly jumped out of my chair with excitement! My first reaction was to call Deb Wimshurst.” 

Deb, a current paramedic and her husband Ross, a retired paramedic, contacted Ms Nicholson very early in her campaign regarding the serious need for

increased paramedic resources locally, including a new station. 

They advised her that Victor Harbor paramedics operate out of a run-down old three bedroom home and a new station was promised 20 years ago in 2001. 

Ms Nicholson says Finniss will receive $6.1M in funding for two additional paramedic crews as well as a brand new, purpose-built ambulance station in Victor Harbor.

“I am proud to have been a strong, public advocate for this issue, informing both of the major parties of our specific local needs and making it a top priority in my campaign. 

“This need for our region was unfortunately ignored by the Liberals but Labor made significant election promises. 

“I received a phone call from the new Premier, Peter Malinauskus, in the days following the March 19 state election to affirm his commitment to additional paramedic crews for Finniss, and the confirmation from Minister Picton on Friday just tops it off.” 

Ms Nicholson believes Ross and Deb Wimshurst should feel very proud, “this outcome is a testament to hard work and dedication to the cause and demonstrates what can be achieved with strong advocacy for our region.”