The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) are bringing pop-up vaccination clinics to the Gunnedah Shire during September, with residents encouraged to come forward to receive their first or second Pfizer jab.
The RFDS will host clinics in Gunnedah, Mullaley and Curlewis over a 5 day period from September 13-17, with anyone aged 12 and over able to attend.
Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Cr Jamie Chaffey said these mass vaccination clinics will help boost the local vaccination rate and ensure residents are well protected.
"As of September 5, 62.9% of eligible Gunnedah Shire residents have had at least one dose of a vaccine, compared to the NSW average of 74%. We have seen a big improvement in our vaccine rate in the last few weeks, thank you to everyone in the community for coming forward to get vaccinated," Cr Chaffey said.
"We are very grateful to the RFDS for bringing this vital service to the Gunnedah Shire community. It is clear that the only way for us to move forward is through vaccination and I encourage all residents to come along to get their jab.
"This service is targeted at helping our Shire lift vaccination rates, so we kindly ask that residents from outside the LGA wait for future clinics planned across the North West.
"Children aged 12 and over are eligible to be vaccinated at these clinics, so I encourage parents to bring their children along to ensure they are protected when they return to school."
Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton has been in consultation with Cr Chaffey for some time about bringing a mass vaccination clinic to Gunnedah, and said he is pleased that the RFDS has been able to provide this opportunity.
"The Gunnedah community has been calling for this for weeks and after consultations with the RFDS and council, I'm delighted we've been able to secure these clinics," Mr Coulton said.
"With COVID-19 now in the regions, it's more important than ever to get vaccinated to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our communities.
"I encourage all eligible people to go along and take advantage of this incredible opportunity."
Clinics will be held on the following dates:
- Gunnedah Showground - Monday September 13, 9:30am to 4pm
- Gunnedah Showground - Tuesday September 14, 9:30am to 4pm
- Gunnedah Showground - Wednesday September 15, 9:30am to 4pm
- Mullaley Hall - Thursday September 16, 10am to 4pm
- Curlewis Hall - Thursday September 17, 10am to 4pm
Bookings are not required. Residents should ensure they are wearing a mask and bring their Medicare card, a hat and sunscreen.
