Crane names highlight locals

THREE cranes named after prominent locals are becoming part of the city’s skyline to assist the Ballarat Base Hospital redevelopment.

The redevelopment is funded by the State Government, and Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison, Member for Eureka Michaela Settle, and Member for Ripon Martha Haylett announced the crane’s names.

“As the new tower at Ballarat Base Hospital comes to life, it’s only fitting that the three cranes that build it are named after four amazing locals that have contributed so much,” Ms Settle said.

The first 48-metre crane, Josie, arrived last month named after retired nurse Josie Ashmore.

Ms Ashmore started her nursing career in Ballarat in 1969 and ten years ago underwent major abdominal surgery which included stoma formation and reversal.

She began making fabric bags to cover visible drain tubes and donating them to other patients, and has since created about 2000 bags.

The second crane, Wasek, is named after medical oncologist Associate Professor Wasek Faisal who is a research lead at Grampians Health with expertise in thoracic malignancies.

The third crane, Ashton and Grant, takes its name from brothers Ashton Kline and Grank Monks.

Mr Kline is a Grampians Health nurse and undergraduate clinical placement coordinator while Mr Monks is a Grampians Health switchboard operator and Kidney Health Australia ambassador.

Mr Monks has had kidney disease throughout his life and is an advocate for supporting others with chronic illness.

Mr Kline administered dialysis to his brother as a teenager, became a nurse, educator and advocate for the prevention of family violence.

“Congratulations to our incredible locals Josie, Wasek, and Ashton and Grant, and thank you for your contribution to healthcare in our community,” Ms Addison said.

The hospital’s redevelopment is set to be completed in 2027.