Health and Community Services Union

The Health and Community Services Union welcomed the news from the State Government today that Blackwood Cottage, located at Beechworth Hospital, would remain open.

The closure of the facility was being proposed by the Department of Health and the management of Beechworth Hospital and North and West Health. In response to community-run campaign against the closure, the Minister for Mental Health, Lisa Neville, announced yesterday that the State Government would act to prevent the closure of the facility.

Blackwood Cottage provides specialist care for North East Victoria’s elderly who are experiencing behavioural issues due to mental illness and dementia. Blackwood Cottage has 15 beds and is located within the grounds of Beechworth Health Service.

The Department of Health was advocating a proposal to relocate the service to Wangaratta and reduce the number of beds from 15 to 10.

"This is a fantastic outcome for HACSU members working at Blackwood Cottage; it’s a fantastic outcome for the people of Beechworth and surrounding areas; and it's a fantastic outcome for the clients of Blackwood Cottage," said HACSU State Secretary Lloyd Williams. "We really need to take the time to congratulate Lisa Neville for making the right decision and supporting local Mental Health Services."

"It is also really important to acknowledge the tireless campaigning of the SOS Blackwood Cottage Committee and other members of the Beechworth Community for mounting an outstanding campaign against the relocation proposal," said Mr Williams.

The Health and Community Services Union also took the time to acknowledge Victorian Upper House Member, Candy Broad, for her efforts in bringing the closure to the attention of the government.