The $3.7 million expansion doubled the number of treatment spaces at the hospital to 16, which included the creation of a second resuscitation cubicle, a new isolation cubicle and a behavioural assessment room.

Mr Blackwood said in a media release the expansion accommodates the area’s growing population.

“Today’s opening is fantastic and the expansion will enable West Gippsland Healthcare Group continue to meet the needs of its community now and into the future,” Mr Blackwood said.

“The funding for this project is the result of a $2 million Victorian Coalition election commitment to improve access to emergency services.”

The Andrews Foundation also donated $500,000 toward equipment for the expanded facility.

“The Andrews Foundation has been a valuable contributor to West Gippsland Healthcare Group over a long period of time,” Mr Davis said.

“I would also like to thank health service staff who continued to provide quality emergency services to their community during the construction phase.”