WHILE the views from the new South East Regional Hospital will take in the stunning vistas of the Bega River flats and the Black Range, Friday saw a ceremonial planting of a tree on top of the building.
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NSW Health Minister Jillian Skinner was one of several VIPs on hand for the SERH “topping-out” ceremony.
The topping-out was a symbolic ceremony marking the build reaching its highest point, a significant achievement by construction group Brookfield Multiplex considering first concrete was poured only in May this year.
Brookfield’s managing director David Ghannoum was also on hand to mark the special occasion.
He explained topping-out was a European tradition, where the “planting” of a tree at the highest point of a building site was designed to bring good fortune to all those involved in its construction, as well as those who would eventually be using it.
“I’m delighted to be here today and acknowledge the hard work, commitment and collaboration of everyone involved,” Mr Ghannoum said.
Ms Skinner was joined in addressing the gathering by Member for Eden-Monaro Peter Hendy, Member for Bega and NSW Treasurer Andrew Constance and Southern NSW Local Health District chairwoman Jenny Symons.
All four also enjoyed writing their name in a patch of concrete dropped in for the occasion via “Doc” the tower crane.
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