THE State Government has given Bellarine Community Health a $1 million handout a day ahead of a public protest rally against the sale of BCH’s Portarlington aged care facility Ann Nichol House.
Health Minister Davis Davis, who has been asked to intervene in the proposed sale by Bellarine MP Lisa Neville and Geelong City Hall, announced the $1 million grant to redevelop Bellarine Community Health’s centre  at neighbouring Drysdale.
“This redevelopment will see an extensive refurbishment of the main entry, reception and offices enabling a wider range of services to be delivered,” Mr Davis said.
“A new floor will be added, which will expand its capacity with minimal disruption to the existing building.
“The redevelopment will ensure the local community has better access to important community health services in a modern, purpose-built facility.”
Mr Davis has not responded publically to the petitions regarding Ann Nichol House.
BCH chief John Fendyk told the Independent, however, the issued has been clouded by misinformation circulated by opponents of the sale.
The protest rally against the Ann Nichol House sale will take place from 1pm Saturday at Parks Reserve, Portarlington.
