Bendigo Community Health Services’ new-look Eaglehawk site was officially launched on Friday, September 12 at a grand opening where community, politicians, past and present staff and others gathered to mark a milestone for the service.
“This new facility sends a strong message to the community that your health matters,” said Dr Jas, one of the BCHS GPs to serve the community of Eaglehawk.
The event was about welcoming the community in and through the doors of their community health service.
Premier Jacinta Allan, Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards and Federal Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters took part in the celebration.
“The Eaglehawk site is the beating heart of community health, not just in Bendigo, but Australia,” the Premier said, acknowledging the then-Eaglehawk and Long Gully Community Health Centre was the second CH to open nationally, in 1974.
Jacinta, who officially opened the site alongside BCHS Board Director Michel Carney, spoke of standing in the same spot Gough Whitlam stood to open this site in 1976.
The Premier spoke of her long association with BCHS starting 30 years ago, and of her State Government’s investment into the site redevelopment – $7.3 million from the Health Infrastructure Fund, topped up with $1.1 million from BCHS.
She said the building will set up the community for a healthier future.
“We’ve got a great history here and it’s endured,” she said.
“Bendigo Community Health Services has been a cornerstone of our community since 1974 and we’re backing them to continue delivering high-quality care for generations to come.
“This massive refurbishment is making sure more residents can access the care they need in modern, state-of-the-art facilities.”
Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards added; “These new facilities will mean our local healthcare professionals can provide even better care in modern, fit-for-purpose spaces.”
BCHS CEO Mandy Hutchinson said the site was more than a building.
“Our hope is that the people of Eaglehawk see this as their place – a space that belongs to the community, designed with pride, and built for the future.”
Architect Dr Darragh O’Brien said extensive demographic research and consultation with staff and community informed the building’s design, and for good reason.
“Public architecture has been found to contribute to a sense of dignity, and belonging in a community, with measurable positive impacts on health and wellbeing,” Darragh said.
“It is hoped that this rejuvenated facility will do the same for Eaglehawk.”
The event included a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony by Dja Dja Wurrung Elder Jason Kerr, music by the Eaglehawk Brass Band, singer/songwriter Nay Ye Thwey, a Rotary Club sausage sizzle and tours.
Among the community who attended was Eaglehawk legend Brian, who said he had been enjoying the new-look onsite Exercise Physiology gym. “It’s terrific,” he declared, adding it was “just so good” to see this investment in his community.
Fellow local Lyn Parker was also there, representing her late husband Bill, who spoke at the first 1976 site opening. Bill was on the committee to campaign for community health in the 1970s, and later served as chair.
