The Ministry of Health has received a modified Toyota van to specifically fit the needs and maintenance capacity in Tonga.
It also received other biomedical equipment as well as training opportunities.
The donation came after Semisi Finau, Bio Medical Engineer, Ministry Of Health visited Adelaide to ensure that the equipment included in the shipping container was appropriate and relevant to the needs in Tonga.
Training will also be provided in the use of ambulance and equipment.
During the official hand over, Dr Lisiate ‘Ulufonua, Medical Superintendent, extended the thanks of the Minister, CEO and staff to the two representatives, Jeff Candy (Project Coordinator from RC of Noarlunga East) and Keith Driscoll (Executive Director Clinical, South Australia Ambulance Service) as well as to the members of RCN.
He recognized how this is part of the ongoing partnership between the hospital and South Australian Ambulance Service which started in 2009.
This relationship was built out of the Rotary Club of Nuku’alofa initiated relationship between Vailoa hospital and St John of God hosptial in Ballarat, which has been running for over two decades.
Dr Lisiate emphasised how these partnerships help support government’s objective for universal health coverage.
Dr ‘Amanaki Fakakovikaetau, Chief Dental Officer (and RCN Director Internatioanal) delivered the final vote of thanks recognizing the collective effort that had gone into bringing the project to fruition, and the ways in which the RCN can support these relationship with overseas clubs.
The Rotary Club of Nuku’alofa (RCN) is delighted to welcome this support moblized by the Rotary Club of Noarlunga East and the South Australian Ambulance Service.
Support is also recognized from other South Australian Rotary Clubs (Tailem Bend, Blackwood, Cormandel Valley, Campbelltown, Noarlunga and Hallett Cove), Rotary Donations-in-Kind and Tongan community in Adelaide, who provided the contents and helped with the packing of the 40 foot container.
The total project is estimated at A$70,000
