News & Events: Media Releases

Calvary Cairns renamed Cairns Private Hospital

11 November 2002

The Diocese of Cairns has formally passed ownership of the 141 bed Calvary Cairns Hospital to Ramsay Health Care, finalising the sale agreement reached in October.

The formal change of ownership ceremony took place in the presence of Cairns Bishop James Foley and the Chairman of Ramsay Health Care, Paul Ramsay, at the Hospital today. To reflect the change of ownership, the hospital has been renamed Cairns Private Hospital.

Ramsay Health Care, established in 1964, is Australia’s second largest private hospital operator with a portfolio of 25 facilities located throughout Australia. Cairns Bishop James Foley said the Diocese was very pleased that the Hospital had been purchased by Ramsay Health Care who are highly respected in the industry for their commitment to staff, doctors and quality patient care.

He said the Diocese would continue its involvement in Aged Care across the region as this long-term community based care accorded better with the Diocese mission. The proceeds of the sale would be transferred to Aged Care and particularly the redevelopment of Bethlehem home.

At the Ceremony, the Bishop expressed appreciation for the dedication of the staff at Calvary over many years.

Welcoming the staff and doctors of Calvary Cairns to the Ramsay Health Care Group, Paul Ramsay said the Company aimed to enhance the features that had made Calvary a very successful hospital in the Cairns region.

“Calvary Private Hospital has an excellent reputation for providing a high quality service. We look forward to building on this reputation and being part of the Cairns community. We intend to make Cairns Private Hospital the premier private hospital in the far north Queensland region,” Mr Ramsay said.

“The staff and doctors at Calvary can feel confident that they are joining a successful private hospital operating group with a strong culture, values and commitment to quality patient care.”

In Queensland, Ramsay Health Care also owns Greenslopes Private Hospital and New Farm Clinic in Brisbane.

For further information please contact: Richard Lizzio, Executive Director Diocese of Cairns: 07 4051 1189