Increased capacity and a better experience are two of the main benefits Albury Wodonga Health's (AWH) new multi-lane COVID-19 testing clinic will bring to the community.
Opening from Friday, November 5, The Lakeside Clinic will be located between the cities of Albury and Wodonga at Gateway Lakes, just off the Lincoln Causeway.
Albury Wodonga Local Public Health Unit Executive Director Lucie Shanahan said the layout and location of the drive-through clinic will make it easier for the community to get tested.
"At the peak of the recent COVID outbreak, our three testing clinics in Wodonga were operating beyond capacity," she said.
"We have been eager to find a longer term solution, and are pleased we have been able to work with Wodonga Council on the new site at Gateway Lakes."
The Lakeside Clinic will operate 10am to 3pm on Friday, 5 November and then 7.30am to 3.00pm seven days a week. The walk-in clinic on Smythe Street will continue to operate from 7.30am to 3.00pm Monday to Friday.
"Having the Lakeside Clinic as a drive-through, and Smythe Street as a walk-in, provides the community with different testing options to suit individual needs and preferences."
The new site will replace the Wodonga Racecourse clinic, which has recently closed so that preparations for the Wodonga Gold Cup can commence.
The Vermont Street clinic, which has been servicing the community for nearly two years, will close at the end of year due to upcoming construction work at Wodonga Hospital.
"We have full confidence The Lakeside and Smythe Street clinics have the ability to accommodate local testing demand, with both having the ability to increase hours and capacity when needed," Ms Shanahan said.
Speaking on the COVID-19 response effort, Wodonga Mayor Kevin Poulton stated, "We've been working with Albury Wodonga Health to ensure our community has quick and easy access to COVID-19 testing facilities and council staff have provided the on-the-ground support and resources needed to achieve a great outcome for the community."
Ms Shanahan said the increased testing capacity proved particularly timely, as many locals will be requiring Day 13 tests over the coming week.
"We again thank the community for its support and patience during the recent outbreak and thank our staff for their outstanding efforts in getting people tested," she said.
