NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian swept into Griffith in a blaze of glory on Wednesday, squeezing in a handful of public and private events splashing funding wherever she went.
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It was an impressive display wooing Griffith residents, some of which even asked for the likable Premier’s autograph.
The Murray state Member and Griffith’s own Adrian Piccoli could barely contain his excitement either.
And why would he, when the state’s most powerful figure is walking Griffith’s streets, while paving them with gold.
Council had its moment in the spotlight too at the Bagtown roundabout, which seems to have gone down well with the majority of residents.
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There was another $5 million in funding announced by the Premier to finish the Southern Industrial Link for Griffith at the roundabout ribbon cutting, and appearances at the library and newly opened Almondco facility.
But even council was caught off guard when the Premier’s office announced Ms Berejiklian’s schedule would kick off with an announcement at Griffith Base Hospital.
Mayor Dal Broi expressed his relief the state government had finally made a formal acknowledgment the hospital needs fixing in this year’s Budget
Hospital staff and patients weren’t the only in attendance in awe of the Premier.
It seems the media couldn’t help themselves but get caught up in all the excitement too. Mr Piccoli was actually asked the question – “$40 million man?”
Unfortunately, the out-of-town media couldn’t uncover the detail Griffith residents were after regarding Berejiklian Government’s financial promises.
But either could The Area News.
$35 million towards planning for an upgrade is fantastic, but when will it arrive?
How far up the Berejiklian Government’s list of priorities is the city’s ailing hospital?
From Ms Berejiklian’s reaction, it’s a question she was adamant we would not get the answer to.
“I’ve said this five times already, the money is there, OK, as the Premier of NSW that’s why I’m here to say the money is there, what we need to do is make sure the final planning takes place.”
So ultimately, Griffith remains where it was before the Premier galloped into town this week on the back of her golden chariot – waiting on an answer to when its public hospital will be upgraded.