THE State Opposition has promised Mareeba residents they’ll take their stories from today’s Queensland Health Crisis Town Hall to the floor of the Parliament.

Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli and Shadow Health Minister Ros Bates joined locals from across Far North Queensland for the LNP’s 34th forum.

Patients and health professionals raised numerous issues, including the decline in reliable services for the region.

Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli said the opportunity to listen to the community would drive the Opposition’s push to heal the Queensland Health Crisis.

“We promised Queenslanders we would travel across Queensland to hear their stories about the Queensland Health Crisis and we won’t stop,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“Today’s stories in Mareeba show the devastating impact declining services can have on a community.

“It’s clear access to maternity services and specialists has gone backwards due to the chaos and crisis of the Palaszczuk Labor Government.

“Locals aren’t angry at the frontline staff, they’re frustrated with the State Government that’s failed to plan and deliver for eight years.

“The LNP has put health solutions on the table to heal the Queensland Health Crisis including better resources, better triaging, sharing data in real-time and putting doctors and nurses back in charge to improve patient care.

“It’s time for the Palaszczuk Government to listen and take action to heal this crisis for communities like Mareeba.”

Shadow Health Minister Ros Bates said Queenslanders deserve a world class health system no matter where they live.

“In 2023 Queenslanders from the Cape to Currumbin should have access to essential services,” Ms Bates said.

“Today’s Town Hall shows Mareeba residents and locals in surrounding communities are being left behind.

“They are being let down by a Health Minister who’s more focused on photo-ops and fudging figures instead of funding local services.

“Shannon Fentiman needs to start listening to communities like Mareeba so they get the health services they deserve.”