Wangaratta Chronicle, Wangaratta VIC (General News) KUDOS to Victorian Health Minister Jill Hennessey and Upper House member Jaclyn Symes for the substantial increase in funding for our regions prime medical facility Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW). While the funding is more than justified due to the increase in demand, it doesnt always equate that government funding equates to the increase need, particularly when that increase is far higher than the consumer price index. A $6.6 million increase (up 7.3%) to bring the annual state funding to almost $100 million indicates not only the enormity of NHWs operation but also the understanding the State Government has of the services importance to the region. It doesnt seem that long ago when NHW was continually missing out on major State Government funding, particularly in relation to the stage one redevelopment, but following the $15 million announcement earlier this year to allow the redevelopment to proceed, its been full steam ahead. If there is going to be anything more than just hot air when it comes to decentralisation talk, political parties of all persuasions must commit to ensuring that regional areas have the necessary infrastructure to attract new people and businesses. Apart from employment, health services are close to the top of the tree for basic services needed to attract new residents, followed by education, housing, roads and lifestyle, and the continued support of our hospital and investment in its future developments are essential for Wangaratta and the regions future. Speaking of employment, the investment in NHW does not only help secure the health of our largest employee, it will most likely increase opportunities for more staff openings in the near future.