August 27, 2012
Former MP Mike Horan and Christine Stewart go back a long way …
Back in the 1990s, Christine was working for Queensland Health and advocating strongly on behalf of Cherbourg residents to her then-boss Mike, who was Health Minister.
Fast forward to 2012. Christine has retired from Queensland Health after a remarkable 37-year career and Mike has retired from politics. But they’re still linked by the health needs of Cherbourg residents.
Mike Horan is now chairman of the new Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service Board, which is responsible for hospitals and health services throughout the South Burnett.
Christine has been elected to Cherbourg Council.
Mike is visiting the South Burnett this week to talk to residents, medical staff and visit local health facilities.
But he had a special task in Cherbourg today: to officially open the new Cherbourg Community Health building which has been named in honour of Christine.
The centre, which is located in the old Cherbourg Nurses Quarters, has been re-furbished at a cost of $1.8 million to provide clinic rooms, interview rooms and office space.
Two rooms have been dedicated to the memory of the late Mary Maud Davidson and Joseph Button Snr, Cherbourg Elders who worked tirelessly for the Cherbourg Health Action Group during their lives.
Two other rooms after named after current members of the Cherbourg Health Action group: Elizabeth Jacobs Snr and Rory Boney.
After officially unveiling the building’s new name plaque, which has been mounted on bunya pine, Mike congratulated Christine on her long career and for her work in establishing the Cherbourg Health Action Group.
“You have made a wonderful contribution to Queensland Health … thank you,” he said.
Christine said she felt humbled and privileged that her community had recognised her past work in health. She also praised the workmanship that had gone into creating the new Community Health Centre.
- Related article: Horan To Open $1.8m Health Centre
