Building starts on Dr. Julie Zrna Centre
Less than one year on from its launch, the Mildura Health Foundation has announced that construction has commenced on the accommodation hub for people receiving radiation treatment at the Mildura Health Icon Cancer Centre, to be known as the Dr. Julie Zrna Centre.
The accommodation project launched in September 2023, with the initial aim of raising $5 million towards the cost of building ten apartments within the health precinct in Thirteenth Street and Chair of the Mildura Health Foundation, Mr. Terry Hill, said the level of support the Centre has received has been overwhelming.
“I extend my gratitude to everyone who has supported this project; it has been amazing to see significant donations come from our community and beyond - people who do not live here but who have a connection to the region have got behind this project just as those who do call the Mallee home, have done.
“Raising the $5 million for the build, was a milestone moment and to now see works taking place on site is extremely meaningful, not just for the Foundation but for everyone who has supported it and for all those people across our region, who have been touched by cancer, who understand the impact the Dr. Julie Zrna Centre will have,” Mr. Hill said.
In June, local builder, JAAG, was awarded the contract to construct the Centre, after a robust tender process and JAAG Director, Jim Gowty, says his whole team is committed to delivering the best outcomes on the project.
“Cancer affects all of us, directly or indirectly and because of this, we saw the Mildura Health Foundation project as vitally important for our region and JAAG is proud to be involved in its construction.
“JAAG Professional Builders gives an undertaking to deliver this project punctually and to the highest standard available, because we are acutely aware of the importance of the Dr Julie Zrna Centre for our community and particularly for those receiving treatment for cancer,” Mr. Gowty said.
With the need for the accommodation keenly felt, Mr. Hill said the Foundation is working with JAAG towards a completion date of June 2025.
“Thus far, we are progressing well, and we deeply appreciate the enduring patience and support from our neighbours during the construction process.”
With the construction target met, Mr. Hill said the Foundation will continue fundraising to help furnish the individual apartments and to cover the ongoing operational costs of the Centre.
“Our aim from the outset was to provide this accommodation with little, to no out-of-pocket expenses for the patients who utilise them.
“So, if you have the capacity to donate, please consider doing so, because every dollar you give will make a difference to cancer patients for years to come.”
