Bendigo Community Health Services has started a multi-million-dollar refurbishment of its Eaglehawk site.
The development will be the biggest investment in community health in the suburb since the Seymoure Street site was built in 1976.
The project was first revealed in February, 2022, following announcement of a grant from the Victorian Government’s Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.
BCHS interim CEO Nicole Ferrie said the refurbishment was a chance to not only look at the physical building, but the holistic health and wellbeing needs of the community.
“Over the past year we have undertaken extensive consultation with our community to determine people’s needs and expectations for their community health site,” Ms Ferrie said.
“Bendigo Community Health started in Eaglehawk in 1974, and the site is still our primary medical and allied health centre.
“This refurbishment will ensure we can continue to meet the needs of the community now and into the future.”
Ms Ferrie said once complete, the site would feature more space, state-of-the-art equipment, expanded services and dedicated community areas.
To make way for the works, the BCHS Eaglehawk services have moved to various temporary locations in Bendigo.
The medical practice has moved to 75 Mitchell Street, Bendigo.
The allied health services have moved to:
- Active Living Program - 501A Napier St, White Hills and 19 Helm St, Kangaroo Flat
- Physiotherapy - 501A Napier St, White Hills and 19 Helm St, Kangaroo Flat
- Podiatry - 19 Helm St, Kangaroo Flat & 165-171 Hargreaves St, Bendigo
- Forensic mental health - 19 Helm St, Kangaroo Flat
- Chronic disease management - 165-171 Hargreaves St, Bendigo & 75 Mitchell St, Bendigo
- Sexual health nurse - 165-171 Hargreaves St, Bendigo
Ms Ferrie said BCHS clients would find the same welcoming staff, the same caring doctors, nurses and clinicians, and the same personalised service at each location.
“We understand these moves may be inconvenient for some of our clients, and we encourage them to reach out to us if they have any concerns,” she said.
“We will work to ensure our valued clients are cared for during the estimated 18 months of building works.
“We will provide updates and details as required, via media, our website and social media, within the centre and via direct contact with our clients.”