THE Hunter's vaccination hub has delivered its first doses on Monday morning, adding to NSW's capacity to roll out inoculations as the Sydney outbreak continues to lock down the state's capital.
The Belmont venue opened at 8am after comprehensive testing last week. It is expected to hit full capacity in the next three weeks, when it will be able to dole out 20,000 doses each week.
Hunter New England Local Health District chief executive Michael DiRienzo said the opening was an exciting milestone.
"In just six weeks we have converted an empty warehouse to a built-for-purpose clinic, including medical treatment bays, waiting areas, a pharmacy preparation area, storage, staff facilities and public amenities," he said.
"It is testament to the team which has worked so hard that we have opened our doors today. I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who has contributed to the clinic's construction and operation."
Bookings for the John Hunter Hospital have been shifted to the former Bunnings site at Belmont.
Glitches have continued to hamper registrations but Hunter New England Health says it is hopeful they will be ironed out by early this week.
"I recognise that there is great demand for appointments across Newcastle and the Hunter, and that there have been some frustrations with booking. Please be patient as we ramp up the clinic to full capacity," Mr DiRienzo said.
"We know the COVID-19 vaccine is our best chance of keeping the virus at bay and ensuring we keep our communities safe, so we are very focused on getting locals vaccinated as quickly as possible."
"To avoid lengthy delays and to ensure the clinic can function as it's been designed to do, please make an appointment and only attend at your allocated time."
