The Beagle Editor,
On balance Facebook brings out the worst in people. The despicable posts regarding ACT number plates and residents “holidaying” on the South Coast is just deplorable. It is not only in Batemans Bay but extends from Nowra to Eden. Yes, these areas were ravaged by the bushfires. So when challenged they claim their outbursts are just PTSD symptoms.
Money, goods and services plus the people from Canberra and further afield rallied to assist the locals after the fires. The goods and services were snapped up, on many occasions just like the toilet paper hording because they may need it not because they required it.
Now we hear with great passion the Mayor and others “stay away” “Don't holiday here”. The logic is sound and the reason and evidence is irrefutable BUT please temper your tone and message. Think bigger and longer term.
Here is an idea.
If the South Coast does not have sufficient beds to handle the expected demand from the COVID-19 illness why not lobby, post and phone the “power that be” to get a temporary ward along side the Moruya Hospital to accommodate the sick locals.
If a temporary mall for Mogo could be installed why not a temporary ward?
Aspen Medical is to build a temporary COVID-19 Emergency Department on or near the Canberra Hospital campus which should be up and running in a month. It could claims the ACT Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith be set up in 72 hours right next to the current hospital ICU unit.
Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the facility would be dedicated to patients with moderate to severe cases of COVID-19 from the ACT and the South Coast.
So when you next see an out of town number plate jump on your keyboard and write a post to someone with the money and influence to build a temporary ward for COVID-19 on the South Coast.
Have a read of this article https://the-riotact.com/aspen-medical-to-build-covid-19-ed-at-canberra-hospital/367777
Harry Watson Smith Malua Bay
