The Weston Creek Community Association received conditional approval to run an interim health service project on a budget of $70,000, The Canberra Times reported on this day in 1975.
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It was the first such service in Canberra managed entirely by a community association. The service was staffed by a doctor, a community worker, a nurse and a receptionist. The interim service had evolved from more than 18 months of planning by Weston Creek residents. In August 1973, they elected a committee to assess the medical and health needs of the growing population, which was then about 26,000.
It was recommended the area be serviced by a large health centre linked with a number of smaller neighbourhood centres. Workload on doctors was eased by ancillary health workers and counselling staff. The improvement in general recreation and community facilities helped combat stress-caused illness.
An operating base had yet to be decided, with several alternatives being considered. In keeping with government policy of responding closely to the needs and wishes of the people, to undertake their own community projects would be satisfying, as well as providing a useful guide to the government in developing the most efficient system of healthcare possible.
