New ambulance for Rottnest

• $180,000 ambulance delivered to island's nursing post

• Replaces troop carrier in use since 2003

• Greater reliability of service for visitors and residents

The Rottnest Island Nursing Post has become even better equipped to deal with medical emergencies after a new ambulance was delivered to the island.

Health Minister Kim Hames said the $180,000 ambulance was a modern all-wheel-drive van that would replace a troop carrier that had been in use since 2003.

"The 'troopy' has served the nursing post well but due to the harsh environmental conditions at Rottnest, it needed to be replaced to ensure the post could continue to provide the highest quality of care to island visitors and residents," Dr Hames said.

The Minister said the ambulance, which was delivered before the busy summer period, had a brand new fit-out and would allow nursing post staff to provide a high level of patient care when responding to medical emergencies on the island.

"The new ambulance will provide greater reliability and safety for staff and patients," he said.

"It is a lot more spacious, which will allow the staff to deliver better, immediate emergency care in transit when required."

Dr Hames said nursing post staff were excited to take delivery of the van and were looking forward to getting it on the road.

       Fact File

• Photos of the ambulance are available on request

• Rottnest Island Nursing Post treats about 4,000 patients a year

• There are four permanent staff members based at the nursing post, which is open daily from 8.30am to 5pm, plus an on-call service after-hours

• Emergency physicians from Fremantle Hospital's ED provide a service at the nursing post during the summer season and school holidays

Minister's office - 9222 8788