Published on Friday, 25 February 2022 at 10:00:00 AM
With COVID-19 present in our region, the Shire of Ashburton, along with State response agencies including WA Country Health, Department of Communities, WA Police, neighbouring Local Government Authorities and industry partner Rio Tinto have been meeting daily to discuss items and community concerns relating to the current outbreak in Tom Price.
Last weekend the Shire of Ashburton assisted Rio Tinto to establish the community screening facility adjacent to Tom Price Hospital and will continue provide administrative support at the facility.
The screening facility has been set up to provide the hospital with additional support and to conduct COVID-19 testing and ensures medical care remains available at the hospital in case of an emergency.
The facility is open from 10am to 3pm every day for community members who have been directed by WA Health to get a COVID-19 test and/or have cold or flu-like symptoms. Bookings should be made through the online booking system (https://riotintogreatertompricerapidscreening.setmore.com/).
Shire of Ashburton President Kerry White said she was pleased to see the Shire and Rio Tinto coming together at this time to collaborate and support the community as well as each other’s operations with the recent outbreak of COVID-19 in Tom Price.
“The actions undertaken this week demonstrate the value of community partnerships, particularly in remote areas”, acknowledged Councillor White.
“I would also like to thank Rio Tinto for their delivery of 400 rapid antigen tests to the Shire for our staff use and to ensure we are maintaining a safe and healthy workplace”.
“This year is the tenth anniversary of our community partnership and I look forward to continuing to work Rio Tinto to serve and further develop our communities of Tom Price, Paraburdoo and Pannawonica.
“I would also like to thank the community for their quick response and way in which they are adapting to newly imposed State public and social health measures and restrictions”.
Rio Tinto General Manager Tom Price and Marandoo Operations Chris Osborn said “It is fantastic to be part of a community that comes together in times of need. Thank you to the Shire of Ashburton for working with us to offer this much needed support to WA Country Health. So far the screening clinic has been a great success.”
For more COVID-19 information, refer to New public health and social measures from Monday, 21 February (www.wa.gov.au).
For media information contact:
Alison Lennon, Manager Media and Communications
M: 0409 314 140 | E: [email protected]
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