October 21st, 2026CHRH Small Health Service of the Year
Central Highlands Rural Health has been named the Premier’s Small Health Service of the Year at the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards.
The award is one of Victoria’s highest public healthcare honours, recognising excellence in leadership, governance, innovation and service delivery. After being named a finalist for four consecutive years, CHRH has now secured the prestigious accolade.
CEO Maree Cuddihy said the recognition reflected the impact of the organisation’s people and the communities they serve.
“While we are a small health service, the work we do is not small. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of our people and the trust our communities place in us. We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved and grateful to everyone who contributes to making CHRH such a special organisation.”
The award acknowledges the work taking place across CHRH every day, from caring for patients and residents, to supporting people in their homes, delivering community health services and providing the vital operational support that underpins quality care.
This recognition is particularly significant as it is the first time CHRH has received the award as a unified organisation following the amalgamation of Kyneton District Health Service and Hepburn Health Service in 2019. Since then, CHRH has continued to strengthen and grow, expanding services, embracing new opportunities and maintaining a strong focus on meeting the healthcare needs of local communities.
CHRH also congratulated fellow finalists Terang and Mortlake Health Service and West Wimmera Health Service with Ms Cuddihy saying it was an honour to be recognised alongside two outstanding rural health services that are making a valuable difference in the lives of people across regional Victoria.
CHRH services the Hepburn and Macedon Ranges shires with campuses in Clunes, Creswick, Daylesford, Kyneton and Trentham.
Words & image: Contributed From left, CHRH executive director Susan Jennings, CHRH director Matt Francalanza, CHRH CEO Maree Cuddihy, CHRH director Kristie Lawson and CHRH board chair Mary Delahunty
