Hospital welcomes community funded surgical robot

A LARGE group of individual donors, corporate sponsors and local dignitaries gathered at St John of God Bendigo Hospital recently to witness the unveiling of its new da Vinci Xi surgical robot.

The purchase of the revolutionary machine was made possible by a whopping $2.85 million fundraising campaign.

The system is known for its advanced 3DHD vision and precise instrumentation, offering unparalleled flexibility, and is designed to enhance surgical capabilities across a range of procedures including cancer-related operations.

 

It can also perform prostate surgery, colorectal surgery, thoracic surgery, and renal/gynaecological procedures.

Major donor, the Hazeldene Family, was represented by Mavis Hazeldene, Vicki Gaudion and John Hazeldene, while Ion Hann (vice-president Australian Operations) and Felicia Binks (director environment and government relations, Australia) attended on behalf of major sponsor Agnico Eagle Fosterville Gold Mine.

 

Speaking at the reveal, SJOG CEO Michael Hogan said the robot will be a game-changer for the region, enabling minimally invasive surgeries that were previously only accessible in metropolitan centres.

“This technology will not only improve outcomes but also reduce recovery times for our patients,” he said.

“We are deeply grateful to our donors and supporters who made this vision a reality.”

The hospital’s director of marketing and business development Anna Hill also praised the generosity of donors who supported the campaign.

 

“This achievement is a testament to the incredible spirit of our community,” she said.

“From individuals to businesses, everyone has united generously and compassionately to ensure patients across the region have access to world-class care.”

The first surgery using the da Vinci Xi is scheduled for 12 March, led by eminent urological surgeon Associate Professor Janelle Brennan.