Plans for a new Cancer Wellness Centre in Hobart have moved a step closer with a long-term lease officially signed for the Campbell Street building.
The centre will be developed and operated by gynaecological cancer support group Support Hope and Education (S.H.E) in partnership with the University of Tasmania and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Group.
S.H.E Chair Scott Harris said the centre will provide vital services including psychosocial support, information, education and system navigation, physical wellbeing and holistic support.
His late wife Jo Harris, who died of ovarian cancer in April 2023, was one of the the driving forces behind the wellness centre.
“Not only will we give this fantastic building a new lease on life, but … we are going to help provide additional support to some of the thousands of Tasmanian families who are touched by cancer each year,” Harris said.
“S.H.E has been busy working on a business case and talking to our partners to ensure this new facility will complement other services available and integrate seamlessly into the services offered over the road at the Royal Hobart Hospital.”
Concept design renders released today by Cumulus Studio show large new additions to the former Theatre Royal Hotel on Campbell Street, which was earmarked for the centre in January 2024.
Architect Peter Walker is aiming for the centre to be a restorative and uplifting space “where architecture and nature work together to support healing and well-being”.
“There’s a lot of evidence about how the spaces that we are in actually help with our health and influence our health,” he said.
Deputy Premier Guy Barnett said the initiative will complement existing efforts in cancer treatment and research in Tasmania.
“Each week, thousands of Tasmanians receive high quality care and treatment for cancer,” he said.
“We are committed to supporting Tasmanians to access the best possible treatment and care, closer to where they live so they are surrounded by their families and loved ones.”
“This dedicated wellness centre will be located opposite the Royal Hobart Hospital and provide support and comfort to Tasmanians being treated for cancer.”
It is hoped a development application will be lodged for the centre with the City of Hobart in the coming months.
