When Bunnings moved out of the warehouse on the Pacific Highway at Belmont speculation was rife as to what would take its place. Few of us would have guessed that the site would be transformed into the second COVID-19 vaccination hub in NSW.
Second vaccination hub in NSW
After opening the first mass vaccination site at Sydney Olympic Park in Homebush, the state government was on the lookout for the ideal location for its second site. The NSW health minister, Brad Hazzard quickly identified the Hunter region. After considering locations in the area the old Bunnings site became the ideal choice. With the number of people that will come through the doors every day, the site needed to have good public access and parking availability.
Doors open 19th July, 2021
Work has now been undertaken to transform the old Bunnings warehouse into the new vaccination centre. The doors open on 19th July and it is expected that up to 4000 people could be vaccinated on a daily basis. The vaccination hub will employ approximately 100 nurses to deliver the vaccinations as well as pharmacy and support staff.
“I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the tremendous efforts of our staff and all the contractors who are helping us to deliver this vaccination centre,” – Michael DeRienzo Hunter New England Local Health District chief executive
Register for your jab
Brad Hazzard is hoping that placing this vaccination centre in Belmont will enable more people to get the jab faster.
“I am confident the community will register online to get vaccinated at this new centre, or with their GP, and encourage others to do the same,” he said.
Everyone in NSW who is aged 40 or over can now make an appointment for a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination. The process is straightforward to book an appointment. However, there are still some issues with the online booking system.
Alternatively, you can call 1800 571 155 but currently expect long queues to talk to someone. Click here to find out more. Vaccines Eligibility Checker (healthdirect.gov.au)
Astra Zeneca is now also being offered at this location from August 10th, along with Pfizer. Bookings can be made from the 4th August 2021. People aged 18 years and over registering for Astra Zeneca must have a formal consent from their GP before making the booking.
Source:
ABC {Accessed 8/6/21} Former Bunnings at Lake Macquarie to become next mass COVID-19 vaccine hub in NSW – ABC News
Newcastle Herald {Accessed 6/8/21} Belmont mass vaccination hub opens bookings for AstraZeneca after Pfizer doses diverted to Sydney
