A beacon of compassion and care for Central Queenslanders, The Fitzroy Community Hospice had its formal opening on May 20, 2024. Once officially open, the hospice will provide much needed palliative care services for those living with a life limiting illness.
As the only Hospice north of Hervey Bay, the facility will improve access for local patients and their families seeking quality community based Palliative Care. With 11 beds and additional spaces for administrative and meeting activities, the hospice will provide a comfortable, home-like environment for patients.
Coinciding with National Palliative Care Week 2024, which intends to bring awareness to palliative care services and the people at the heart of palliative care, the formal opening of Fitzroy Community Hospice brought together stakeholders, community members, supporters and donors to celebrate a significant milestone for end-of-life care in Central Queensland.
Fitzroy Community Hospice will provide the full spectrum of subacute palliative care, including short-term symptom management, transitional care between hospital and home, and end of life care.
With the generous support of the Australian Government and the central Queensland community, the facility will be able to support and admit over 250 people during its first years of operation.
Palliative Care QLD CEO, Louise O’Neill, said that this opening marks a milestone for palliative care in regional Queensland.
“The opening of Fitzroy Community Hospice signifies an enormous step forward for access to palliative care in the regional communities of Queensland.”
“A testament to Vicki, Beth and the team at Fitzroy Community Hospice, who put in a monumental effort to get the hospice up and running. What they have achieved is a credit to them and their involvement within compassionate communities.”
“On behalf of everyone at Palliative Care Queensland, I want to pay tribute to their hard work in support of Queenslanders with life-limiting illnesses. Thank you.”
Assistant Minister for Regional Development & Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm said the opening of Fitzroy Community Hospice will support many Central Queenslanders with life-limiting illnesses.
“The opening of the Fitzroy Community Hospice will be welcome news for central Queenslanders. The Australian Government is proud to support the development of much needed healthcare facilities and provide a peaceful place of rest for those who need it.
“As the only palliative care facility in central Queensland, I look forward to seeing the care, support and ongoing impact the Fitzroy Community Hospice will provide for patients and their loved ones.”
The Hospice will employ 17 full-time employees and be assisted by approximately 50 volunteers.
