When Maryborough resident Don Calder needs to use a hydrotherapy pool for his treatment, he has to drive about an hour to either Bendigo or Ballarat.
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Mr Calder's experience prompted him to write to his local state MP Louise Staley about the need for a dedicated hydrotherapy pool in the town, an issue she has subsequently raised with Victoria's health minister and sports minister.
Mr Calder has multiple sclerosis and mostly uses a hydrotherapy pool for physiotherapy exercises.
He has concerns about the adequacy of the current facilities available in the town, which has indoor and outdoor pools.
Mr Calder said the water in the pools was too cold for hydrotherapy and while there was a lift for access, there was no ramp.
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He said a hydrotherapy pool would be widely used in Maryborough by people with a disability, those in the sporting community, and older people - especially given the ageing population.
Mr Calder, who developed MS 16 years ago, said he used a hydrotherapy pool about once a week but he would visit more often were there one closer to home, because the cost and time of travelling proved too onerous.
The almost two-hour round trip to and from Bendigo or Ballarat, he said, could cost him $25 to $30.
Mr Calder said those who had a carer would also face the cost of paying the carer to accompany them to one of the cities. "It's a service that the town needs," he said.
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Also of concern, he said, was the single disabled toilet which doubled as a family room, meaning people were sometimes forced to wait a substantial period of time to use it.
Earlier this month, Ms Staley, the MP for Ripon, raised the issue in parliament and requested a hydrotherapy pool be developed in Maryborough. Last August Ms Staley wrote to the health minister about the issue and was referred to Sports Minister Martin Pakula.
"I really do ask that he seriously considers delivering this within the current indoor Maryborough pool complex," she said.
Mr Pakula did not provide comment to the Bendigo Advertiser.
Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
