The chamber has formed a health action group to advocate the need for better health services and infrastructure funding in the Manning and Great Lakes region and it now needs members.

Mr Thornton is urging the community to rally to his call to join and says the chamber wants individuals as well as representatives of health service delivery organisations to join the group.

According to Mr Thornton, "health in our area is on the front page at the moment and that's good news - we need to keep it there."

"It is important that our representatives at both levels of government are aware of the increasing community focus on the realities of health in this area," Mr Thornton said.

"We are receiving some level of representation but there are inconsistencies."

Mr Thornton says one of the objectives of the health action group is to create a united voice.

"Everyone is talking about health and there are a lot of individuals and groups who are trying to raise the issues. I think we can be more effective with government if we get all those groups, all of those people in our community to come together," he explained.

"We want groups in the health sector and individuals from our community anyone who wants to see change in how our area is seen by government in regards to health funding we receive.

"We want to make sure the health system and services in the Manning is first and foremost in the minds of our politicians."

Chamber members floated the idea of forming a health action group following two successful community health forums in Taree and Forster on February 25.

The chamber acted to host the health forums in conjunction with Manning Hospital Local Community Health Advisory Board to discuss State government funding of Manning Hospital infrastructure and current and future health needs for the area.

To become a member of the health action group contact Manning Valley Business Chamber on 6551 2299.

ainslee.dennis@fairfaxmedia.com.au

Manning Hospital Rebuild Campaign