Digging in deep to kick off construction on the Broken Hill RSPCA site, Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig, and RSPCA NSW CEO, Steven Coleman, were in the Silver City on Monday to officially announce $1.775million in funding to upgrade the dilapidated site and expand animal welfare services in time for the local service’s 50th anniversary next year.
Construction has now officially begun on a much-needed upgrade of the facility. The significant funding will enable redevelopment work to take place at the animal hospital, which has been operating since 1974.
Renovations include the construction of another consulting room and surgery, new animal wards and animal isolation units, and new surgical preparation and animal treatment areas.
The investment in Broken Hill Veterinary Hospital will support the RSPCA in providing shelter, new veterinary equipment, and vet treatment services for pets and animals, both locally and across the Far West.
Mr Coleman said, “since 1974, our Broken Hill Veterinary Hospital has cared for local companion animals, livestock, horses, and wildlife.
“Thanks to this investment from the NSW government, and contributions from our incredibly generous donors and members, we will be able to continue serving the local community for decades to come.
“Our organisation has a very close connection to the Broken Hill community and this facility is the only RSPCA veterinary clinic within a 300-kilometre radius, so we’re very excited to see upgrade works commencing on site which will deliver increased capacity and state-of-the-art services for the region,” said Mr Coleman.
Minister Hoenig said improving animal welfare standards and promoting responsible pet ownership was a priority.
“Facilities like the RSPCA Veterinary Hospital in Broken Hill play an important role in supporting local councils in ensuring positive welfare outcomes for pets and other animals.
“Modern and well-equipped facilities in our communities are essential to maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare. Having been operating for nearly 50 years, the renovations to this facility are long overdue but the investment will ensure animals in Broken Hill and the surrounding area continue to receive the care and treatment they deserve,” said Mr Hoenig.
The funding for Broken Hill Veterinary Hospital is part of a $10.5 million grant from the state government to RSPCA NSW for upgrades of animal shelters across the state where RSPCA cares for more than 17,000 animals each year.
