Health changes in store

THE former Cockatoo General Store could become part of Monash Health.
Cardinia Shire Council is investigating the use of the Bailey Road property.
Purchased by the council in 2011, initially for training, meeting and consulting purposes, the property is now being considered for other use such as for Monash Health.
Mayor Graeme Moore said the Monash Health site in Cockatoo has the capacity to accommodate additional services.
These services include nursing, dental, medicine, physiotherapy and non-clinical services such as counselling, community development, social work and case management.
“We are working in partnership with Monash Health to attract additional service providers to town at this site,” Cr Moore said.
“The Monash Health site has the advantages of being in a more central location as well as being better suited to host an expanded range of services and training,
“Again, this is a decision based on what is the best outcome for the community.”
The facility was one of the council’s properties that were identified in a review of assets that may be surplus to requirements.
The decision allows the public to make submissions in relation to the sale because the property is subject to a statutory process.
The council has been co-operating with community groups such as the neighbourhood house to explore options to connect broadly with the Cockatoo community.
Cr Moore said the council will continue to liaise with the neighbourhood house committee to progress this issue and the old fire refuge is an option to further explore with it to meet its needs.