Tyres slashed at Barwon Health

Barwon Health employees have had their car tyres slashed as a result of parking restrictions introduced at the McKellar Centre in Geelong.

Fees of up to $20 a week were introduced last year for on-site parking and employees at the time were encouraged by Barwon Health management to park in surrounding streets if they want to avoid the fee. However this has triggered a backlash from local residents who have vented their frustration on some occasions by slashing the tyres of McKellar Centre staff.

The introduction of car parking fees is effectively a pay cut for staff not able to use public transport or other alternatives. For Health Professionals who need to pick-up and drop-off children at school and childcare to and from work, it is especially problematic to have to pay extra for parking or worry about their car being damaged. The current fortnightly fee system also penalises part-time staff, with the restrictions rushed in before boom gates that will allow a pay-as-you-go system were ready.

The VHPA has met with Barwon Health management and repeatedly sought a solution to the current problem.

While Barwon Health management has given assurance that they have improved safety, incidents of vandalism against staff are still occurring and staff are genuinely fearful of parking in surrounding streets. We will continue to press Barwon Health management for a better outcome and are now seeking a meeting where members can also attend to air their complaints.

Any Health Professionals at the McKellar Centre who are still having problems with parking should contact the VHPA’s Organiser, Emma Brelsford.