Millions invested into community health

PLANS are in motion to redevelop Bendigo Community Health Services’ Eaglehawk site after the organisation received a multimillion-dollar State Government boost last week.

BCHS was awarded $7.3 million from the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund for their Seymoure Street location.

CEO Gerard José said he was thrilled to receive the funding, which would be used to create a modern health facility.

“BCHS has been caring for the Eaglehawk community from our very foundation in 1974 and it’s exciting we can now reward their incredible support through the years by delivering a far better health centre to cater for their needs,” he said.

“A redeveloped Eaglehawk site will not only allow us to keep delivering quality medical practice, allied health and counselling services but give us the space to expand into new models of healthcare for the community.”

A consultation process is set to begin with staff, partners and the community for the site’s redevelopment with a focus on the environment, according to Mr José.

BCHS board chair Vicki Pearce echoed Mr José’s comments and said it was time for a transformation at the centre.

“Our Eaglehawk site has served us well for many years but it’s clear the time has arrived to redevelop the centre for the comfort of staff and consumers and to give us space to grow the services we offer to community,” she said.

“This would not be possible without the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund grant and we thank the State Government for investing in the future of healthcare in Eaglehawk and Bendigo.”