Narrabri Shire’s first dose rate nears 84 per cent

Narrabri Shire’s COVID vaccination rates have continued to increase, with the latest Commonwealth data showing a first dose rate of almost 84 per cent.

The second dose rate of 48.1 per cent, as of September 26, is expected to increase considerably following successful mass vaccination clinics in Narrabri and Wee Waa across the weekend.

Almost 1000 people turned out to receive vaccinations at The Crossing Theatre in Narrabri on Sunday and Monday.

More than 200 doses were administered at the Wee Waa Local Aboriginal Land Council on Saturday.

Many attendees at the clinics sought second doses of Pfizer.

The shire’s vaccination rate has continued to lead the way among local government areas in the North West following a surge in inoculations.

The latest immunisation data showed that Moree Plains had achieved 74.4 per cent first dose.

Gunnedah has reached 79.6 per cent first dose and Tamworth is at 81.3 per cent.

Following Saturday’s successful Wee Waa clinic, Wee Waa Local Aboriginal Land Council chief executive officer, Robyn Keeffe said the immunisation centres were about looking after the community, people’s health and the economy.

“I think we’ve definitely helped to boost the vaccination rates by doing these clinics because we were lagging behind dreadfully,” she said.

“The RFDS has done a wonderful job, we wouldn’t have had the access to Pfizer that we’ve had without the RFDS.”

Mrs Keeffe said the Wee Waa Community Hospital nurses, who have worked at the last three clinics, made “a big difference” and really reduced the wait times for people.

“Wee Waa is a beautiful community and it was a shout-out from the community that started the clinics,” said Mrs Keeffe.

“It’s the perfect location being outdoors and I think people feel comfortable coming here.

“I also want to thank the SES and John Clements from Roy Butler’s office for helping,” added Mrs Keeffe.

“Many hands make lighter work,” added Wee Waa Local Aboriginal Land Council chair Clifford Toomey.

“It’s been another way to bring the community together, at a time when we haven’t been able to physically be together, and achieve something for everyone’s health and wellbeing,” said Mrs Keeffe.