HEART5 and free lung checks roll into new towns in North Queensland
The HEART5 Mobile Health Unit will roll into Hughenden and Charters Towers next week for the first time.
It's also returning to Mount Isa as it travels through North and North West Queensland.
Since it began operating in 2022, HEART5 has stopped at 26 different towns during 56 visits in total.
Out of 1,097 former workers tested on board the truck, 157 were diagnosed with a mine dust lung disease.
HEART5 is a B-double filled with medical equipment to screen for mine dust lung diseases like silicosis, black lung, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
It's part of Resources Safety and Health Queensland's (RSHQ) Former Worker Program which allows for those who have left the industry to get tested for free either on board the truck or at an approved local clinic.
RSHQ's Health Surveillance Unit Director Evan Pengelly said it's made possible thanks to a partnership with Heart of Australia who run the truck.
"We’re really proud to offer these free lung checks on board HEART5 in Hughenden and Charters Towers with Heart of Australia," said Mr Pengelly.
"Mine dust lung diseases take time to develop – sometimes 10 years and with no symptoms – that’s why it’s so important to get tested long after you leave the industry.
"If you’re in Hughenden, Charters Towers or Mount Isa, please call up to see if you’re eligible for a free lung test on 1300 445 715."
Upcoming HEART5 trips:
- Charters Towers: 31 March - 1 April | Defiance Mill Park, 20 Boundary Street, Charters Towers
- Hughenden: 2 April | Rotary Park, 30 Brodie Street, Hughenden
- Mount Isa: 7-9 April | Buchanan Park, George Street and Sutton Street, Mount Isa
N.B. PRE-RECORDED INTERVIEWS AND FOOTAGE ARE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST
ENDS
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Amy McCann
0457 094 250
Last updated: 25 Mar 2025