What do you want from a new health and wellbeing hub in the heart of Hobart? Tasmanians are being invited to come in and have their say on the transformation of an iconic central space.
Across three interactive open days, Tasmanian not-for-profit health insurer St.LukesHealth will be throwing open the doors of a new centre planned for the corner of Liverpool and Elizabeth streets.
People can come in and check out activity ideas pegged for the space – everything from therapy dogs to try-it-out sports days, partner pop-ups to lunchtime orchestral performances – and share their thoughts on what else they’d like to see.
“We want people’s input on the health topics they want to learn about, what needs demystifying, and what would make them feel welcome,” explains St.LukesHealth Chair Mel Lukianenko. “And I mean everyone – this will be a space for the whole community.
“While a lot of the ideas are really fun, our new space will also fill an important hole we’ve identified in Tasmania. We know a lot of people struggle to navigate the healthcare system for example, or are unsure where to turn for information on health topics.
“It’s all about helping to empower people with the knowledge they need and motivating Tasmanians in new and different ways to take control of their own health and wellbeing. When we’re happier and healthier, we’re more likely to get on top of health issues before they even arise. Prevention and early intervention eases the strain on our healthcare system as a whole, but we’re not always good at knowing and doing what’s best for us.
“This new centre is a tangible example of how, after 70 years as Tasmania’s own not-for-profit health insurer, St.LukesHealth is breaking the mould and working across the health sector to do things differently. You shouldn’t have to be sick to get value from us. It all goes towards our vision of making Tasmania the healthiest island on the planet.”
The first open day was held on Saturday 19th November, to coincide with the Hobart Christmas Pageant. The building will remain open from 11am-2pm on the 21-22nd November, before the buildout begins.
“Health and wellbeing spaces are so important to add to the vibrancy of a city,” says Katy Cooper, who was appointed to the St.LukeHealth board on Wednesday and is Director City Futures for the City of Hobart. “It’s so exciting when an iconic central location is opened up as a public space.
“It’s even more exciting that Tasmanians are getting a unique opportunity to help shape the activities and experiences they want.
“I’m passionate about concepts that make Hobart a city for all, and help Tasmanians be our very best selves. I urge everyone to drop in, check out the interactive concepts, and have your say on what a hub should offer to be fun, informative, and ultimately help you improve your own health and wellbeing.”
As well as getting the public’s input, St.LukesHealth is also working with other health sector leaders to plan out the use, including how the space can be used to increase access to other important community health organisations. It will also be a new customer care centre for St.LukesHealth members.
It’s estimated the flagship centre will open to the public by mid next year.