Big Billy and Betty reach for the sky

The two massive cranes building the new $200 million Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital have been named Big Billy and Betty. At 35m tall with a 55m reach, there’s no questioning their size.

Children from Jackson School in St Albans entered ‘Name the Cranes’ competition with Big Billy named by 11-year-old Crystal Thompson. The second crane was named by 16-year-old paediatric patient, Kasandra Denic.

The installation of the cranes earlier this year in March was a significant milestone. 'This is where things really get going. The hospital is going to be a great tribute to Joan Kirner AC, our first female premier' says Western Health chief executive A/Prof Alex Cockram.

'Construction works are powering full steam ahead,' says Victorian Health Minister Jill Hennessy. With cranes now in place, the new hospital will start rising from the ground helping to create 600 new jobs for the community. 'This hospital will ensure more women in Melbourne’s west will be able to give birth and access children’s services, when they need it, closer to home,' adds Minister Hennessy.