Emergency power and water for Health Centre

The new emergency generator and water system.

You may have noticed the brand new, bright blue generator and 3000L water tank installed outside the back of the Health Centre.  This is the result of our latest project preparing for emergency situations. 

The generator is a 6 cylinder diesel powered Cummins, capable of delivering 80kw three phase power to keep the pharmacy and medical practice functioning during power outages.  This year we have had two planned power cuts to date. In future the new generator will keep the computers operational and the fridges running at a constant temperature to protect items such as vaccines should there be a power outage.

The water tank will have an ultraviolet filter to ensure a safe water supply.

The cost of both the generator and water tank plus installation has been covered by a very generous private donation.

On another note, we have had changes in the trustee membership.  

Garry Jackson, a founding trustee, who was always so willing to help, died tragically earlier this year.  

Catherine de Groot, who has been such a strong and supportive trustee, has resigned to allow her to meet her many commitments to other projects with which she is involved.  She will be sorely missed.

Michael Lamont, who has been the Trust’s chairperson for the last two years, is moving to Ohope and the Trust has reluctantly agreed to accept his resignation when he departs.  Michael has been a very hardworking trustee for five years and his medical background and experience in the Health sector have been enormously useful.

At our recent AGM Liz Hancock, a founding trustee, was elected chair of the Trust.  We know her well and have every confidence that she will take the helm easily and continue the good work of the Trust.

As the Trust will shortly have three fewer trustees, we would welcome expressions of interest from those who would be interested in being involved in the Ruamahunga Health Trust as a trustee.  Please contact our secretary Terry Blacktop on 306 8568 or email him terryblacktop@xtra.co.nz

Also, our huge congratulations to the volunteers in the Martinborough Healthy Community Project, for winning the Minister of Health 2019, Health Volunteer Health Service Provider Award.  What a successful enterprise to enhance the health of the local community! This project was initiated by the Martinborough Health Centre and has five complementary components, each run by volunteers:

• a weekly walking group to encourage physical activity and companionship
• a community larder for sharing excess fruit and vegetables
• a community garden on donated land
• a six-week Healthy Lifestyle Programme for people with long term conditions
• a regular Health Bulletin which provides medical and lifestyle information that’s easily understood

Ro Griffiths