No funding for the hoped-for Limestone Coast radiation therapy service is expected in the 2024/25 State Budget which will be handed down by Treasurer Stephen Mulligan in Adelaide on Thursday (June 6).


A final report on the feasibility of a radiation treatment facility in this region is not due to be submitted to the Limestone Coast Local Health Network Regional Board until the end of next month.


Report author Darren Button, of Health Q Consulting, presented an interim report to the monthly meeting of the regional board at Mount Gambier on Monday.


LCLHN chief executive Emma Poland said the interim report included an overview of the extensive consultation that has been undertaken.


Ms Poland said the interim report captured feedback and insights from over 500 community members and various identified stakeholder groups, including clinicians and lived experience representatives and groups.


“Following a review and consideration of the final report and recommendations from Health Q Consulting, the LCLHN will share the key findings with key stakeholders and the Limestone Coast community,” Ms Poland said.


“The feasibility study is expected to be completed and presented to the LCLHN Regional Board for consideration by the end of next month.”


Speaking on behalf of his community, Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll said he looked forward to viewing the final report.


“The radiation therapy treatment for local patients to be treated locally is a vital part of our regional health services,” Mayor Noll said.


“Everyone I speak to in regard to this particular service is very positive and knows this service is required to be delivered within the Limestone Coast.”


A public campaign for a radiation therapy facility has been active in recent years and gathered thousands of signatures.