By Esther Lauaki
Bacchus Marsh residents say they are “close to breaking point” after being subjected to a high-pitched whining noise for nearly two months.
The constant noise is coming from the new air filtration system that is part of the recent
$9 million operating theatre revamp at Bacchus Marsh and Melton Regional Hospital.
Marie Hamilton, whose property backs on to the hospital grounds, said the noise was unbearable.
“We have to sleep with earplugs in and fans going so that it drowns out the sound,” she said.
“You could be in a good mood when you wake up, but then you hear that noise and it’s like a mosquito buzzing in your ear.
“I’m a writer and a teacher and when I’m trying to work in my office at the front of the house, I can’t work.”
Another resident, who asked not to be named, said residents were becoming depressed because of the noise.
“It’s a whining noise and increases in pitch about seven or eight times in a space of a minute,” she said. “It then holds the high pitch and climbs back down through those notes.
“It’s constant 24/7.
“We are very well aware that we live next to the hospital and we are very supportive of this development for the community.
“[But] At some point during the development of manufacturing of equipment, something has gone very wrong.”
She said a number of residents had laid complaints with Djerriwarrh Health Services, Moorabool council and the Environmental Protection Authority.
Djerriwarrh Health Services chief executive Belinda Scott, who has met residents to discuss an action plan, said the hospital had engaged
an acoustic specialist to assist with reducing noise.
“Djerriwarrh Health Service has taken remedial measures to lower noise levels,” she said. “We have been meeting with the neighbours to hear their concerns and provide updates.
“We apologise to our neighbours for any inconvenience caused and we are working hard to resolve this problem … and are working towards a positive outcome for all parties.”
Melton council said it had passed resident complaints on to the EPA.
“Council officers have spoken to staff at the hospital as well as the residents regarding the noise issue and have passed all details on to the EPA for them to undertake an investigation and any follow up action,” a council spokesperson said.
The EPA said members of the public can report noise or other types of pollution by calling 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842).
