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Health

Health

Dharma on a quest to gain digital wisdom

20-12-2024

While Australia grapples to keep kids safe online, Daylesford’s Dharma School is embarking on a bold new project that uses a mindfulness approach to tackling the problem. 

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Daylesford childcare centre going green

18-12-2024

The Daylesford Community Childcare Centre is turning empty containers into fresh opportunities with their latest initiative to raise funds for Joe’s Kitchen Garden, an inspiring project aimed at teaching children the invaluable skills of growing and cooking their own vegetables.  

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More protected bike lanes please: RACV

15-12-2024

With bicycle deaths in Victoria up 71 per cent on last year, the RACV is calling on governments to improve road safety for bicycle riders by rolling out more protected bike lanes in strategic corridors across Melbourne.

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Grampians Health board CEO resigns

14-12-2024

The Board chair of Grampians Health Bill Brown has resigned in recent days amid public media reports of budget blowouts and healthcare shortfalls beleaguering the service.

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‘Tis the season to be snake-smart

12-12-2024

Encountering a snake on your property or in the wild can be daunting and at this time of eyar it’s well worth going over some ways to maintain your property and manage any snake encounters, so you and your pets can stay safe.

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Pool season makes a splash

12-12-2024

You know things are warming up and Christmas is almost here when the public pool season starts.

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Grampians Health in IT upskilling project for health workers

10-12-2024

AN increasing demand for strong IT skills being placed on the region's healthcare professionals is refelected in a new pilot project set to run through to the middle of next year.

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AIDS Memorial Tree plaque unveiled

04-12-2024

I think that I shall never see a poem lovely as a tree. So wrote the poet (Alfred) Joyce Kilmer. Last Thursday, just a few days out from international World AIDS Day, a special tree beside Lake Daylesford - an autumn blaze acer to be exact - came in for a bit of extra media attention.

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Djuwang Baring 60km mountain bike trail network officially opened

04-12-2024

Hepburn Shire Council has officially opened the 60-kilometre mountain bike trail network, Djuwang Baring (Creswick Trails) with a special event at the Hammon Park trailhead in Creswick held on Saturday.

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Extreme weather ahead: drones hone in on fire hazards

30-11-2024

Local households and businesses are being urged to prepare for possible power outages in extreme conditions this summer with the Bureau of Meteorology anticipating “warmer than average days and nights” ahead.

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‘Chart your fart’: Calling Aussies to track flatulence for science

26-11-2024

The CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, is calling on the community to track their farts, to help scientists better understand the frequency and characteristics of one of the leading gut health symptoms experienced by Australians. 

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Upgraded ambo station launched in Trentham

25-11-2024

Trentham ambos have celebrated the official opening of the town's upgraded ambulance station in recent days.

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Barefoot ‘fun’draiser …

21-11-2024

Daylesford turned on the sunshine for the Barefoot Bowls "Fun"draiser at the Daylesford Bowling Club on Sunday, November 10.

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Live4Life milestone celebration in Daylesford

20-11-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council’s partnership with Daylesford College, Central Highlands Rural Health and the team at Youth Live4Life has reached its six-month milestone on a youth mental health and suicide prevention program.  

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Uni staff call for gambling regulatory reforms

15-11-2024

Staff at Ballarat's Federation University are calling for reform to address the impacts of gambling in the wake of Lancet Commission report findings.

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Asthma deaths decline in Victoria: ABS

13-11-2024

Asthma deaths in Victoria have dropped by seven per cent over the last year, Australian Bureau of Statistics data has revealed.

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UTI treatment now more readily available for Aussie women

11-11-2024

Australian women can now access treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections at a community pharmacy, without a prescription.

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Shelley Simpson new manager at Hepburn House

09-11-2024

Shelley Simpson is the new manager at Hepburn House and after just five weeks is already  loving her place in the community.  

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Help is at hand for seniors feeling isolated

09-11-2024

"Ah, look at all the lonely people.” The Beatles. Loneliness can be savage on aged people. There is, however, a way to ease it.

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October marked a month of positive ageing for Hepburn

31-10-2024

As part of Positive Ageing Month, the Hepburn Shire Council hosted a suite of events to remind residents of the creative and diverse ways they can stay connected socially.  

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50 bouncing babes give cause to celebrate

28-10-2024

Victoria's health minister, MP for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas says the state government is making fertility care more equitable and affordable and helping Macedon families save up to $10,000 to start or grow their family.

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Women’s health clinic funding boost for free services

27-10-2024

The new Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub at Kyneton Health has been given a boost with extra funding allocated from the state government to significantly increase the free services offered to the local community.

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Surprise $250k donation for Daylesford Health

26-10-2024

A surprise phone call to Daylesford Health will change lives in rural Victoria  thanks to Harry and Peggy Maddicks.

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Call for safer socials: chance to have input on age limit plan

24-10-2024

Parents say they’re worried about their kids using social media, but feel powerless to push back against the tech giants.

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On yer bike for Biketober: RACV

21-10-2024

One of the biggest bike-riding initiatives in the state, Biketober is proving particularly popular this October with the RACV encouraging people to jump on their bike and register to participate.

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Warning on H5N1 bird flu strain

18-10-2024

Do not be complacent. That's the main message to Australians as the latest strain of bird flu virus is rated as representing a genuine health risk to people as well as to birds and other animals.

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Free RSV immunisation program for state’s babies

15-10-2024

The state government says it's taking action to help protect Victorian newborns and infants from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) next winter as part of a free hybrid immunisation program. 

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Reform aims to prevent suicides

14-10-2024

Victoria's state government is carrying out reform, including of the Victorian Suicide Prevention and Response Strategy 2024-2034, in a bid to prevent Victorians from taking their own lives.

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Thunderstorm asthma warning: grass growth tipped to spike pollen levels

14-10-2024

The state's asthma and hayfever sufferers are being warned to plan ahead for high to extreme pollen count days expected to peak in the coming months, increasing the possibility of dangerous thunderstorm asthma events.

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Respect, care and comfort at Hepburn House

12-10-2024

I never imagined Mum would move from our family home in Traralgon - her home for nearly 60 years.  

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Central Highlands Rural Health named a finalist in public health awards

09-10-2024

Central Highlands Rural Health has some cause to celebrate after being named a finalist in two categories of the state's Public Healthcare Awards which will be held in November.

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Positive ageing expo at Forest Resort, Creswick

06-10-2024

All Hepburn Shire residents aged over 55 are being invited to get along to the free positive ageing expo taking place at the Forest Resort at Creswick this Thursday October 10.

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Pats and chats with purpose

25-09-2024

Most people recognise the love of four-legged friends in the home and now they're starting to appreciate the benefits canine companions can have in the workplace.

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Ballarat Base upgraded carpark now open for use

23-09-2024

Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney has officially opened Ballarat Base Hospital's upgraded carpark earlier this month.

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First community vet clinic in Castlemaine

14-09-2024

The Regional Community Vet Clinic has secured a permanent home for its clinic.  

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Info session on home-based age care packages for locals

13-09-2024

Locals considering their options for remaining at home as they age are  being invited to a public information session on the Home Care Package program.  

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Combatting vaping in Ballarat and beyond

11-09-2024

The City of Ballarat is partnering with several local organisations, schools and sporting clubs to implement a program designed to empower young people to say ‘no’ to vaping.

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You bloody beauty: CFA’s lifesaving impact during blood drive

09-09-2024

CFA members from across the state have saved around 3,000 lives by making more than 1,000 donations during this year’s Emergency Services Blood Drive.

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CSIRO unveils new ‘​​​​Healthy Habit​s​’ tool to shift Aussie scales

08-09-2024

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has launched a new tool designed to help Australians break free from unhealthy eating habits and make it easier to succeed at weight management.  

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Police warn young to stay safe online

08-09-2024

Victoria Police is urging young people to be considerate about sharing intimate images of themselves online and to make a report if it happens without their consent.

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Bark up with dog park proposals: MP for Macedon

07-09-2024

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas is encouraging local councils to put forward new ideas for dog parks or existing dog parks that need an upgrade as part of Round 2 of the  New and Upgraded Dog Parks program.

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Avian influenza movement restrictions eased

06-09-2024

A poultry housing requirement that has been in effect to control the spread of high pathogenicity avian influenza near Terang and Meredith was lifted as of last month for some birds.

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Priority care clinics mark half a million visits

06-09-2024

The state's Priority Primary Care Clinics are this month marking half a million visits from Victorians in need of care, with the popular clinics currently welcoming 7,000 patient visits each week through both walk-ins and appointments.   

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Rescind motion leaves gambling harm minimisation policy in limbo

05-09-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council's Gambling Harm Minimisation Policy is in limbo after a notion of rescission was lodged at its August meeting held last week.

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Hepburn Shire Council joins anti-vaping campaign

31-08-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has joined a new $2m initiative to empower young people to say no to vaping.

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Free farm safety session soon for local farmers

31-08-2024

The City of Ballarat is bringing together multiple emergency services agencies to promote farm safety with a farm safety information session set for next month.

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New skin cancer clinic opens in Woodend

30-08-2024

A state-of-the-art skin cancer clinic has opened in Woodend, offering appointments to patients without the need for a referral from a GP.

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Daylesford’s merry men of The Shed

30-08-2024

There’s little doubt that the blokes at the Daylesford Men’s Shed could whip up a nifty set of gates, a neat kitchen table or some handy signage.   

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New operating theatre opens in Daylesford

28-08-2024

Daylesford hospital’s new operating theater has officially opened and has already started being used to provide locals with much-needed procedures, with the hospital also putting on new staff.

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Chance to help shape cycling, walking links in and around Ballarat

28-08-2024

The City of Ballarat is inviting public input and suggestions on how best to improve walking and cycling corridors across Ballarat and linking to surrounding areas, including Creswick.

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Project adapts ‘big, beautiful female theory’ for stage

23-08-2024

Daylesford playwright, theatre maker and social worker, Rebecca Lister will collaborate with writer, visual artist, poet and critic Eloise Grills to adapt Elouise’s 2022 illustrated memoir “big beautiful female theory” into a play.

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$2million to help stop youth vaping

22-08-2024

The state government is backing a new initiative that will see local councils, universities, sporting clubs and community organisations join forces to help stop young people vaping.

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Save on heating bill, chill in the library: council

20-08-2024

Macedon Ranges residents are being encouraged to take advantage of the shire’s four libraries as free ‘warm spaces’ and enjoy an abundance of literature and free activities during the colder months. 

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Medical transport education sessions

20-08-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council - in partnership with local business ‘Lily’s Travels’ - is facilitating information sessions to support older people in confidently navigating transport to medical appointments, using public transport.

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Just sayin’…

19-08-2024

"Damn never become a carer - you won't like it." This was the sage advice of my Frankston-based doctor, dating back about 20 years. I can't quite remember but I think maybe Mum had been a bit crook and I was looking after her.

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Men’s shed grants up for grabs

19-08-2024

The state government says it's supporting the health and well-being of local communities with grants to build and improve men’s sheds in Victoria. 

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Busiest quarter on record for paramedics

17-08-2024

Paramedics and first responders across Victoria have faced the busiest quarter on record, with crews in the Grampians Region responding to 4,418 Code 1 emergencies.

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Little care for carers

16-08-2024

Daylesford's Ruth Bray, pictured above with husband Malcolm, has taken part in the National Carer Roundtable in Brisbane.

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Free degrees for aspiring nurses

08-08-2024

The Victorian state government says it's continuing to back the next generation of nurses and midwives with a free education scholarship program for those hoping to enter the profession.

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Partial opening of Creswick mountain bike trails

07-08-2024

In a move that's pleased plenty of keen mountain bikers, the Hepburn Shire Council has opened 32 kilometres of Creswick's new mountain bike trails network (Djuwang Baring) - five months ahead of schedule.

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Clinical trial hopes ahead for regional Victoria

07-08-2024

GRAMPIANS Health hopes to bring more clinical trials to regional Victoria.

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Just sayin’…

03-08-2024

I received a media release last week from Central Highlands Rural Health  saying that they are partnering with the council to provide free access to  puberty education resources.  

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Memory Lane Unit providing personal care

03-08-2024

Chloe Dridan is loving working at Hepburn House's new Memory Lane Unit.

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Puberty not so blue

02-08-2024

Central Highlands Rural Health has partnered with the Hepburn Shire Council to provide grade five and six students across Hepburn Shire primary schools with free access to important puberty education resources.

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$997,000 accessibility splash for Ballarat aquatic and lifestyle centre

24-07-2024

The Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre is about to become more accessible and inclusive thanks to a joint project between the state government and City of Ballarat.

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90 years of healthcare in Trentham

21-07-2024

Trentham Bush Nursing Hospital, pictured, was officially opened by Governor Lord Huntingfield and Lady Huntingfield on September 7, 1934. 

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Ageing conference inspires new short film

18-07-2024

The experience of community members being talked over at an ageing conference was the spark that inspired the theme of a new short film shot in Clunes.

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Looking good for the festival

15-07-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has secured extra funding of $10,000 through the Victoria State Government’s 2024 Seniors Festival Active Living Fund to deliver Seniors Festival events this October.

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Macedon women urged to participate in pain inquiry

10-07-2024

Local women and girls in Macedon are being urged to share their experiences with the state government's landmark Inquiry into women’s pain.

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Chance to influence Ballarat’s recreation future

09-07-2024

The City of Ballarat is preparing for the future of sporting facilities by outlining a 15-year plan to ensure the municipality’s recreation infrastructure keeps up with forecasted population growth.

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Women’s health hub at Kyneton

04-07-2024

The state government has announced the locations of the final six Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hubs – with three to be established in regional Victoria including Central Highlands Rural Health at Kyneton.

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It’s a pain, but…

27-06-2024

The Victorian Department of Health has launched an Inquiry into Women's Pain and is establishing the Women’s Health Research Institute.

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Staying strong and boosting independence: info event

23-06-2024

As part of its Living and Ageing Well in Hepburn project, Central Highlands Rural Health has launched a series of community information events.

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Christmas in July dinner planned for Hepburn Regional Community

22-06-2024

Hepburn Regional Community Cheer’s Christmas in July Dinner will be held on Wednesday, July 24.

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Social connectivity and a good book: queer book club chapter for Daylesford

21-06-2024

The new Daylesford chapter of Queer Book Club has started with a good turnout late last month.

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Big morning tea a sweet success for local club

11-06-2024

A Biggest Morning Tea held at the Daylesford Bowling Club has raised $2700 for the Cancer Council.

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Move to beef up bulk-billing for GPs

10-06-2024

The state government says it is working to support GPs to provide more bulk-billed primary healthcare consultations for families.

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Bendigo to trial smoke, vape-free locations

04-06-2024

The City of Greater Bendigo is undertaking smoking and vape-free trials at a number of public sites in Greater Bendigo until Friday June 28, 2024.

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Free living well info events ahead for Daylesford

29-05-2024

Central Highland Rural Health has launched a series of community information events as part of its Living and Ageing Well project.

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Free workshop on overcoming mouse phobia

27-05-2024

As autumn settles in the Central Highlands, so does the occasional uninvited guest - the field mouse.

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Wheatsheaf local tackles long ride for prostate cancer

18-05-2024

From next Saturday May 25 until the 1st of June, Wheatsheaf local David Robertson will be tackling in the Long Ride for Prostate Cancer.

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A sporting presentation for IDAHOBIT day

13-05-2024

To celebrate IDAHOBIT on Friday May 17, Swinburne University, alongside VicHealth and Vicsport, will present a report on one of the first Australian studies to document participation rates of LGBTIQA+ people in sport.

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Chance to help shape health outcomes for Hepburn shire

05-05-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council is investigating key areas that directly influence the health and wellbeing of its residents with locals invited to participate in an online survey.

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Council formally opposes pokies bid for Romsey pub

05-05-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has formally endorsed a submission to the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission opposing an application for 50 electronic gaming machines in the Romsey Hotel.

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Gisborne’s Charlie makes young achiever finals

03-05-2024

Young Gisborne artist, Charlie Jackman has been named as a finalist in the 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards (Victoria) in the Josh’s Rainbow Eggs, Ethical Business category.

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Your say…

02-05-2024

Over the long weekend in January, I had the need to attend Daylesford Hospital's acute care facility.

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Generous gift willed for Daylesford Health

01-05-2024

Daylesford Health has recently received a $186,000 gift from a past patient who left the funds to the hospital in their will.

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CFA peer program enriching communities, improving lives

14-04-2024

Regional brigade administrative support officer and CFA volunteer with Orbost brigade and Orbost’s Group Secretary, Kylie Findley is happy to help anyone who walks into her office – staff or volunteer.

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Hydrotherapy pools to be built for specialist schools

02-04-2024

The state government is spending $25 million to build hydrotherapy pools at seven specialist schools throughout Victoria.

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Artists shortlisted for Ballarat’s Continuous Voices memorial

02-04-2024

Three artist and designer groups have been shortlisted from a field of 18 applicants to develop designs for the City of Ballarat's long-awaited Continuous Voices public art memorial.

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Healthy ageing project expands in Hepburn shire

29-03-2024

A pioneering healthy ageing project in the Hepburn Shire has been expanded to Daylesford, Trentham and Creswick after a successful pilot program in Clunes.

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Appealing way to spend Good Friday

29-03-2024

Daylesford teacher Natalie Kirby, and a host of volunteers, are again collecting donations for The Royal Children’s Hospital’s Good Friday Appeal – and they hope to best last year’s total of just over $21,000.

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Innovative youth mental health launch in Hepburn

25-03-2024

The innovative Live4Life youth mental health and suicide prevention program has launched in Hepburn Shire in recent days.

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Opportunity for Wendouree cyclists, walkers

21-03-2024

Work has begun to explore opportunities to make Ballarat's Forest Street in Wendouree safer, more enjoyable and more accessible for people walking and cycling.

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Woman of year gong for Kyneton’s Grace

18-03-2024

Kyneton's Grace Larson, founder of The Sisterhood Project, has recently been named this year's AgriFutures Victorian Rural Woman of the Year.

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Live4Life expanding in Ballarat schools

17-03-2024

The award-winning Live4Life program - increasing mental health knowledge throughout Ballarat - will continue to grow this year.

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Who says the Scots are tight: Daylesford Highland Gathering gives to aged care

16-03-2024

The Daylesford Highland Gathering committee has donated $10,000 to Daylesford Health to be used to improve comfort levels for residents at Lumeah Lodge, its residential aged care facility.

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35 years of rattling tins for the Good Friday Appeal

13-03-2024

For 35 years, Cranbourne CFA member Debbie Jackson has been tin rattling for the Good Friday Appeal, raising much needed funds for sick children attending the Royal Children's Hospital.

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B’rat moves to level the playing field

11-03-2024

The City of Ballarat says it's striving to make access to sporting and recreation facilities as equitable as possible for all genders.

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Chance to help shape gambling harm prevention in Macedon Ranges

10-03-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting community response to its new draft Gambling Harm Prevention Policy that it has endorsed for community consultation at its February meeting.

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Upgrade for Trentham ambo service

08-03-2024

The state government says it's boosting ambulance services in the Hepburn Shire with construction now under way to deliver an upgraded ambulance facility in Trentham.

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Council acts to minimise enviro impacts around Eaglehawk landfill site

08-03-2024

The City of Greater Bendigo Council last week adopted a planning scheme amendment introducing a buffer overlay around Eaglehawk Landfill to minimise future environmental impacts.

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Trentham’s Cosmo to host debut International Women’s Day charity lunch

03-03-2024

Trentham's Cosmopolitan Hotel is holding an inaugural International Women's Day Charity Lunch in Trentham on Friday, March 8.

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Transgender legend to share story at Birds of a Feather first

03-03-2024

Media professional and transgender legend Julie Peters will share her story at the first Birds of a Feather event for 2024at the Victoria Hotel, Woodend this Thursday, March 7 from noon.

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Chilled tennis championships set to return

28-02-2024

The Daylesford Lawn Tennis Club is feeling fabulous as it gets set to host the ChillOut Tennis Championships on March 9 as part of this year's ChillOut Festival.

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VOGA cycle club hosts femmes social off road ride at Creswick

28-02-2024

The VOGA Cycle Club is hosting a special social ride for women at Creswick next month with beginners welcome.

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Blue-green algae increased risk to animals and people

27-02-2024

Recent flooding combined with warmer weather has increased the risk of blue-green algal blooms in farm dams, Agriculture Victoria is warning.

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Time to have a ball… the FREEZA Youth Pride Ball

26-02-2024

Happening at The Palais, Hepburn next month, the Freeza Youth Pride Ball is a free event for LGBTIQA+ and allied young people to come together and celebrate in a safe, discrimination free environment, embracing pride, diversity, and inclusion for all.

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Ballarat’s Parent Place outreach service extended

18-02-2024

After a successful trial series, the City of Ballarat’s Parent Place Outreach service will continue in 2024.

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CFA Pride helps members to thrive

12-02-2024

For the 9th consecutive year, CFA members have taken part in the annual Midsumma Pride March.

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Hundreds provide input on Ballarat’s open spaces

09-02-2024

More than 700 people have provided their feedback to help develop the City of Ballarat’s new Open Space Strategy.

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Just sayin’…

05-02-2024

It's been a long time since I wore a mask but I did recently. It was on a little New Year break on a shortish flight to Queensland.

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You are what you eat: How CSIRO’s total wellbeing diet measures up

30-01-2024

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, is this month celebrating a decade of reducing the population’s waistline through its scientifically backed program, the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet online.

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CSIRO launches free program for digi health innovators

29-01-2024

Applications are now open for CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow program, targeting start-ups and SMEs in the digital health and medical technology sectors.

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2023 the warmest year on record

28-01-2024

The Copernicus Climate Change Service has this month announced that 2023 was officially the hottest year in recorded history.

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Kyle’s Rant

20-01-2024

As we all settle down into the rhythm of 2024, it is worth considering our New Year's commitments and resolutions and if they are likely to be stuck by, or just drunken rhetoric and false promises.

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Raffles raise money for rural health service

19-01-2024

Central Highlands Rural Health is currently running a raffle for an excellent cause with those who snap up a ticket in the running to win some attractive prizes.

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Keep encounters with flying-foxes fleeting this summer

08-01-2024

With Grey-headed Flying-foxes travelling great distances to find food, Victorians may be encountering these vulnerable visitors in backyards and public places, prompting some warnings from DEECA.

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Elephant in the room at Bendigo’s gov hub

02-01-2024

A large fibreglass installation called The Elephant in the Room is now on display at Bendigo's Galkangu Gov Hub in Lyttleton Terrace to enhance awareness of family violence.

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New aquatic equipment to assist community

30-12-2023

The Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre has proudly unveiled the installation of a new piece of equipment that could prove to be a game-changer in accessibility for individuals with significant physical disabilities in the community.

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LGBTIQA+ leadership program, local hub

24-12-2023

Expressions of interest for the 2024 Victorian LGBTIQA+ Leadership Program, encouraging diverse rainbow sector leaders to put themselves forward have opened.

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What a Trooper

20-12-2023

They’re a lively and character-packed lot, the dogs of Trentham, and not least among them is Trooper the kelpie.

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Cycle club holding beginner class

17-12-2023

The VOGA Cycle Club will be holding a beginner cyclists class on Thursday, 29 February starting at 10am at the Creswick Band Rotunda in Albert Street, Creswick.

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Hepburn House extension opening soon

09-12-2023

Hepburn House's new, stunning extension, pictured above, is close to completion with inspections happening soon.

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LGBTIQA+ QHub

26-11-2023

Ballarat’s QHub service for LGBTIQA+ young people is now operational and accepting referrals.

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Electronic gaming machine application for Romsey Hotel

19-11-2023

In the sleepy country town of Romsey, 55 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, residents are gearing up to fight the Romsey Football Netball Club's (RFNC) bid to redevelop and reopen the shuttered Romsey Hotel, with 50 pokies machines.

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Be aware of hydatids senior vet officer warns

07-11-2023

You may have recently read that a living roundworm, suspected to have come from the faeces of a carpet python, was pulled from brain of a woman in New South Wales.

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Breast cancer survivor tells her story to help fellow firefighters

06-11-2023

A CFA volunteer firefighter and breast cancer survivor has shared her story and the support she received with the hope she can help others in a similar situation.

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Pharmacist services expand in statewide pilot

01-11-2023

The state government says it's delivering on its promise to improve access to health care for more Victorians, with community pharmacists across Macedon able to provide treatment and advice for a range of common conditions as of this week.

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Detox day happens for free this Saturday

18-10-2023

Ballarat area residents are being encouraged to spring clean their homes and safely dispose of unwanted household chemicals with the free ‘Detox your Home’ event taking place this Saturday.

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Tackling gambling harm in Ballarat

16-10-2023

The City of Ballarat is partnering with a range of community advocate bodies to shine a light on the harm caused by gambling in Ballarat.

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Famed pianist gives fundraiser recital for local health cause

14-10-2023

Internationally renowned pianist Leslie Howard, pictured above, during a rare visit to Australia, gave an outstanding recital on September 17, as a fundraiser for Central Highlands Rural Health.

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Keen to clog in Creswick

14-10-2023

Mention the word “clogging” and many will immediately visualise heavy Dutch clogs and maybe pitch in a mental windmill and a few tulips as well. Wrong.

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Top new bio job for recycled COVID van

09-10-2023

The Victorian Government is giving a former COVID-19 rapid testing lab a new lease on life – transforming it into an emergency animal diagnostics and plant disease van.

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New public drink fountain for Creswick trailhead

04-10-2023

Central Highlands Water and the Hepburn Shire Council joined forces last week to launch a new Choose Tap drinking fountain at Creswick's new Hammon Park Trailhead.

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Aqualink nodes project link aims to get locals moving

10-10-2023

The Morabool Shire Council welcomed Member for Eureka Michaela Settle to Darley last month to help turn the first sod of the new Aqualink activity nodes project.

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Branching out to address mental health in children

03-10-2023

A Macedon Ranges Shire Council-led pilot program is working to address one of the Macedon Ranges’ most critical issues, in better supporting mental health in primary school-aged children.

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Ballarat’s Biketober prepares to roll

26-09-2023

Biketober is coming to Ballarat – a fun, free and friendly biking challenge for the entire community to take part in throughout the month of October.

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Showcasing inclusion the photographic way

26-09-2023

To recognise International Day of People with Disability the Macedon Ranges Shire Council will be holding a “Showcasing Inclusion” photo competition and is inviting the community to submit photos that show inclusivity in daily life.

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Jim Lycett: Residents’ advocate at Hepburn House

16-09-2023

It's a job you have to do well. Jim Lycett was an hydraulics engineer with Ansett Airlines - working on the important things like landing gear and brakes - and he loved it.

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Firies reach new heights for mental health

12-09-2023

Up to 700 participating Victorian and interstate emergency services members climbed the stairs of Crown Metropol in Melbourne earlier this month, to raise money and awareness for mental health and cancer research.

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CFA saves 3000 lives during blood challenge

12-09-2023

The CFA proudly achieved third place overall in this year’s Emergency Services Blood Challenge, behind NSW and Victoria Police.

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Sick pay guarantee for casuals, contractors

08-09-2023

The state government says it's helping more casual and contract workers access sick and carer’s pay, increasing the number of jobs covered by the Victorian Sick Pay Guarantee and extending the pilot until March 2025.

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Creswick Chorus in concert for healthy cause

02-08-2023

The Creswick Chorus is one of several local singing groups looking forward to being part this month's Stand By Me concert happening 1.30pm-3.30pm at Ballarat’s York Street Church of Christ York Street Ballarat, Sunday September 10.

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Train to become a rainbow community angel

31-08-2023

Locals are being offered the opportunity to become Rainbow Community Angels to enable them to take part in peaceful actions to support community safety at LGBTIQA+ inclusive events with a special training event happening in Kyneton this Saturday.

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Immunisation sessions in store for Talbot and Dunolly

27-08-2023

The Central Goldfields Shire Council's Immunisation team is running free immunisation sessions in Talbot and Dunolly from now until November.

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Top piano talent plays Daylesford Town Hall

23-08-2023

Local music lovers are in for a rare treat as world renown pianist Leslie Howard is giving a once-off afternoon matinee concert in Daylesford next month to support Creswick Health's hospital and aged care upgrades.

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Your say… ombudsman an option in home care service woes

19-08-2023

I read your concerns about home care services (Issues 284, 284 & 285) to Daylesford and surrounds. You probably already know this by now, but the Ombudsman is also a step people can take to report their lack of service.

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Friday’s time to ‘get your uke on’ in Clunes

18-08-2023

It’s Friday on a chill mid winter afternoon in Clunes but the sounds emanating from the town’s Attitude building have a distinctly sunny edge. The weekly ukulele group gathering is in progress.

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Treehouse4Two: retreat for dementia couples

17-08-2023

A diagnosis of dementia can be incredibly upsetting, and unfortunately the incidence of this lethal disease is rising across Macedon Ranges and Hepburn Shires.

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Firey’s commitment to helping others

12-08-2023

Inverloch Fire Brigade’s 1st Lieutenant Matthew King has been making blood donations for around a decade now, and he’s kept this habit up for this year’s Lifeblood Emergency Services Blood Drive.

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Cheers furry ears: Lions hearing dogs lend a helping paw

07-08-2023

Lions Hearing assistance dogs, also known as "furry ears" are provided to people with deafness and hearing difficulty free of charge.

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Threads offering fabulous free styling workshops

05-08-2023

A grant from the Empowering Communities Fund through the City of Ballarat and Department of Justice and Community Safety means Cafs (Child & Family Services, Ballarat) Thread Together is delivering two free styling workshops specifically aimed at members of the LGBTIQA+ community, offering a safe and supportive environment to celebrate and embrace individuality.

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Good grub – gratis – beats the belly rumbles

03-08-2023

Potato and bacon soup, baked ham with roast seasonal veg, piping hot apple and rhubarb pie with cream... I could be at a cafe, pub or restaurant – or a good friend’s place about to be fed. But no I’m in the Uniting Church Hall on a Thursday surrounded by the Good Grub Club’s good deeds in action... and it’s all pretty yummo.

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CFA chief leads by example to help save lives

01-08-2023

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan recently led by example, donating blood, in support of the 2023 Lifeblood Emergency Services Blood Drive.

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Like a good wine: ageing well project launches

25-07-2023

They're a fairly fiesty and active lot out Clunes' way ... and they plan to stay that way. The little goldfields town's local neighbourhood house, the local Attitude - Ageing Well in Clunes group, and the Central Highlands Rural Health have formed a pioneering partnership aimed at ensuring locals' more mature years are among the best they've ever had.

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Free COVID tests in Hepburn Shire

24-07-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has free rapid antigen tests (RATs) available for the community and is making them freely available to collect.

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Just sayin’…

24-07-2023

I have run a couple of briefs, back on page 11 (of the latest hard copy edition of The Local) if you want a look, about a positive ageing expo and another program called Living and Ageing Well in Hepburn. As in Hepburn Shire.

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Bills but no service

22-07-2023

COMPLAINTS about in-home aged care provider, Benetas, continue to rise with concerns the organisation is sending out bills even when a service is not provided.

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A Treehouse4Two

21-07-2023

Central Highlands Rural Health has launched Treehouse4Two, a transformative three-day retreat program for people recently diagnosed with dementia and their carers.

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Nightingale Home Care offering home help

21-07-2023

Nightingale Home Care has arrived in Daylesford and surrounds and offers knowledgeable, caring and empathetic nurses and carers to come into your home.

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Positive ageing expo to be hosted by Hepburn shire

10-07-2023

Hepburn Shire Council will host an expo for members of the community aged 55+ to create connections and expand their knowledge of positive ageing.

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More in-home care concerns come forward

06-07-2023

More people have contacted The Local to speak out against in-home care provider, Benetas.

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Grants available to boost mental health projects

26-06-2023

Applications have now opened for Australia Post’s 2023 Community Grants program.

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Knowing the signs: first aid training for youth mental health

25-06-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council and Youth Gurus are running accredited Youth Mental Health First Aid training for local community members, so they can better support young people who might be experiencing mental health challenges.

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Being seen … for a career in ophthalmology

21-06-2023

DR SANDRA Staffieri has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to medicine as an orthoptist and vision researcher, and to paediatric ophthalmology.

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Service to medicine recognised

13-06-2023

Dr Sandra Staffieri has been awarded the Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to medicine as an orthoptist and vision researcher, and to paediatric ophthalmology.

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Edgy veg awards announced

12-06-2023

Veg Action Macedon Ranges has announced the winners of its annual Edgy Veg Awards, celebrating innovation and excellence in culinary use of vegetables by eateries in the Macedon Ranges area.

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Award for community service

12-06-2023

Daylesford’s Anneke Deutsch has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for services to the community.

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Youth leaders needed for Pride camp

09-06-2023

Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health’s WayOut program is on the lookout for LGBTIQA+ youth leaders for this year’s Pride Camp.

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Sessions set to help combat elder abuse

05-06-2023

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is hosting two information seminars for health professionals on the topic of elder abuse this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day - Thursday June 15.

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A little help to de-tox the home, free event at Daylesford

03-06-2023

Hepburn shire locals are about to get a little help and added incentive to clean out those unwanted household chemicals from their sheds, cupboards and under their sinks and dispose of them safely at Sustainability Victoria’s free Detox your Home event.

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Funding to reopen the Romsey-Lancefield Federation Trail

01-06-2023

Repairs will be carried out enabling the reopening of the Romsey-Lancefield Federation Trail following a decision by the Macedon Ranges Shire Council at its May meeting last Thursday.

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Trentham’s Path of Horse to share in veteran projects funding

31-05-2023

Unique Trentham business Path of The Horse is among those to benefit after the state government announced more than $1.4 million in funding for 55 projects offering practical support for the veteran community, statewide

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Multimillion dollar operating theatre upgrade begins

29-05-2023

Work has started on a $6.148 million upgrade of Daylesford Hospital’s operating theatre.

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Central Highlands Health seeks new community committee members

15-05-2023

Central Highlands Rural Health is after new members for its Community Advisory Committee.

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To mask or not to mask – in healthcare settings.

14-05-2023

Ochre Medical in Clunes and Creswick continues with its mask wearing policy which will be reassessed after winter.

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Loving aged care role

13-05-2023

Mahilpreet Singh (pictured above) moved to Australia from India in 2020 - just in time for Covid lockdowns.

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Beth headed to Hungary for world champs

10-05-2023

DAYLESFORD'S Beth Whiting is heading to Hungary next month to take part in the World Kettlebell Sport Federation championships.

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Daylesford’s Victory Vapes owner slams new laws

10-05-2023

The owner of Daylesford Victory Vapes says the federal government decision to crack down on the sale of vapes will put him and his wife out of the family business they’ve run for a decade.

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Out of hours agreement boosts recreation options for locals

07-05-2023

Daylesford area locals who enjoy an occasional rigorous game of squash or shooting a few hoops are set to benefit from a new agreement smashed out recently.

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Keeping a watchful eye on food outlet habits

07-05-2023

A task undertaken by Agriculture Victoria’s animal health and welfare staff is conducting audits of food outlets to determine how they dispose of their food wastes. This can include visits to pubs, restaurants, supermarkets, bakeries and so on.

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Clunes outdoor fitness pod installed and ready to use

07-05-2023

Locals and visitors hoping to keep fit and healthy at Clunes just got a little added incentive.

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Move to expand Creswick ambo operations to 24/7

03-05-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is seeking a review to expand Creswick’s ambulance operations to 24/7, noting that in this critically important part of the healthcare system ambulance response times in Hepburn Shire are significantly behind the state average – 19 minutes compared to 13.

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Tools 4 Living group to combat the blues

30-04-2023

A new group which aims to support people dealing with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, stress or any feelings of sadness or despair is being held each week in Kyneton.

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Worth knowing about: priority primary care centres

01-05-2023

In case you missed it - here are now 21 Priority Primary Care Centres in Victoria, including Ballarat which opened in December.

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New operating theatre works in sight

30-04-2023

Work is expected to start soon on the upgrade of Daylesford Hospital’s operating theatre.

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Shadey activity at Cairn Curran Sailing Club

29-04-2023

Community Bank Maldon & District chairman Ross Eggleton visited the Cairn Curran Sailing Club on Saturday to meet members and see the club’s newly installed shade sail.

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A golfing win for local health

28-04-2023

THE Harry & Peggy Maddicks Golf Day, held on April 14, raised just under $14,000 for medical equipment and facility upgrades at Daylesford Health.

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Beck’s simple message: #Checkyourboob

27-04-2023

BECK Lewis has breast cancer, but she doesn’t want your sympathy. She wants you to check your boobs. And that’s you blokes as well.

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Good egg! Support Daylesford and surrounds Good Friday Appeal

31-03-2023

This Easter is a great chance to support Daylesford and surrounds annual Good Friday Appeal raising funds for The Royal Children’s Hospital.

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From furniture to philandering: a fascination with fungi

30-03-2023

FOR countless years the mysterious world of fungi has been the domain of a fairly exclusive handful of boffins.

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The Path well travelled

29-03-2023

TURNS out simply hanging with horses is really good for your health and happiness. It’s a basic tenet that underscores the good things happening at The Path of the Horse, just out of Trentham.

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No excuses: Clunes gets new outdoor fitness equipment

23-03-2023

Clunes locals and visitors will soon have less excuse to delay exercise. The town is getting...

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Move over Icebergers, we’re the Polar Bears

16-03-2023

In the weeks since it was publicly floated as a thought bubble, the Calembeen Polar Bears swimming group has quickly caught on as Creswick’s inland answer to the coastal Icebergers.

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Silent pandemic: new report charts path for curbing antimicrobial resistance

13-03-2023

A report released late last month outlines the challenges Australia and the world need to overcome to avoid being thrust back into a pre-antimicrobial age where simple infections are deadly and some surgeries are too risky to perform.

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Artificial intelligence helps advance Alzheimer’s research

11-02-2023

Scientists from CSIRO, and Queensland University of Technology, have used artificial intelligence to develop a world-first benchmark for measuring brain atrophy – or thinning - in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.

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Sick pay, carer pay help for casual and contract workers

08-03-2023

Local casual and contract workers are expected to benefit from a new Victorian Government partnership with Neighbourhood Houses Victoria, affording them access to sick and carer's pay.

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Grab a free RAT

06-02-2023

Hepburn Shire locals are among Victorians now able to pick up two free packets of RATs through their local council to help with early detection and treatment of Covid-19.

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Hepburn House and regional Vic: best ever

02-02-2023

Jo Beswick has already led an amazing life but she says moving to the Central Highlands and taking up the position of care manager at Hepburn House are the “best decisions ever."

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Fabulous fungi has big role in food safety

29-01-2023

A priceless collection of fungi has been replicated for the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) to support research and management of biosecurity and food safety issues.

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Workshops to grow sustainability, resilience

22-01-2023

Five sustainability and resilience workshops will be held at the Trentham Neighbourhood Centre between February 2 and 23.

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Driving after dementia

19-01-2023

Driving after a dementia diagnosis will be the hot topic of discussion at Central Highlands Rural Health’s annual general meeting on Thursday, February 16 at the Kyneton Ambulatory Care Centre from 7.30pm.

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Unclogging emergency: new centres scheduled to open

12-01-2023

The state government has delivered ten Priority Primary Care Centres (PPCCs), with 15 more on the way – giving Victorians a free alternative to visiting a busy emergency department (ED).

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Some CSIRO help to tackle cravings, achieve healthy weight loss

12-01-2023

CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, has released new research that's expected to help Australians start healthy weight loss in 2023 by tackling one of the biggest obstacles to successful dieting: cravings.

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Top chance to grab a medical research grant: applications open now

07-01-2023

The state government is encouraging the state’s brightest health and medical researchers to apply for the 2022 Premier’s Awards for Health and Medical Research.

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Just disgraceful

07-01-2023

In our September 26 edition we let you know what the residents of Hepburn House had been up to. And it's disGraceful.

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Chemical hazard warning issued for post-flood landholders

14-12-2022

Landholders in flood affected areas including those throughout the Hepburn Shire may face a range of issues related to the storage and use of chemicals.

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social enterprise shifts the menu to nutrition-rich eats

28-11-2022

FORGET the days when school lunch meant a pallid pastry followed by a fizzy saccharine chaser and a stomach ache.

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A mural mood boost

21-11-2022

Trentham Aged Care residents are pretty chuffed with their new landscape and wildlife mural which now adorns their dining room wall.

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Work begins on final stage of age care upgrade

21-11-2022

Work has started on the third and final stage of the refurbishment of Creswick's John Curtin age care facility.

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Dread-ful moment for great cause, Woodend

18-11-2022

Mates, Jarrod McQuade, John Crozier and Lucas Paladino are steeling themselves to part with their prized dreadlocks tomorrow in the name of mental health.

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Family estate donates $100,000 to Daylesford’s hospital

17-11-2022

The Maddicks family estate has been supporting the Daylesford Hospital since 1999 thanks to family friend and executor Tim Byrne, who recently donated $100k, bringing the total giving to an incredible $273k.

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Labor commits to ‘change the way women’s health is treated’

16-11-2022

Labor has committed to invest $71 million to completely change the way women’s health is treated in Victoria, if returned at this month's state poll.

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Raising money for palliative care at home

15-10-2022

DUO, Hayden Walsh and Karen O’Sullivan, who recently launched their book If I can, you can, are teaming up once again for a special project and asking the community to participate in the Mount Macedon Realty: Wooling Hill Run 2022 this month to raise funds for Kyneton Health’s Palliative Care in the Home program.

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R U OK?

30-08-2022

A number of activities are being planned for R U OK? Day on September 8 to help people to be able to start a conversation that could change a life

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The bistro is back at the Daylesford Bowlo

28-08-2022

THE new chef at the Daylesford Bowling Club Bistro, Lenny Giri, has a philosophy which is that food is the way to healthier living if it's made with soulful dedication and emotions.

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Lived experience to grow our mental health workforce

19-08-2022

The State Government is bringing lived experience to the heart of the mental health sector, launching a new workforce initiative as vital work continues to transform Victoria’s Mental Health and Wellbeing system.

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Spotlight on homelessness with Narelle Groenhout

14-08-2022

‘LET’S go far – together.’ There’s an African proverb that resonates across our local towns. “If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

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Ageing with Attitude: Clunes to host a new ageing well conference

13-08-2022

On Friday October 28, the regional town of Clunes will host nationally acclaimed leaders and experts in positive ageing in the community at the Talking Ageing with Attitude conference. This new conference hosted by the Clunes community group Attitude will offer local perspective on the global conversation around strategies for ageing well in community. 

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Why no-one cares about your long Covid

02-08-2022

IT’S been a while since I’ve written a story. It’s also been a while since I’ve breathed freely. Or gotten through a day without a nap. Or been for a walk. Anywhere. Just for the joy of it. How long? Since Covid.

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Community needs to lobby for healthcare

31-07-2022

COMMUNITY stalwart Danny Moynihan, pictured, has been involved in three major community drives to get upgrades for the Daylesford Hospital but says the current campaign as the most important. That's because it's been 20 years since a serious site upgrade.

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Medical Training opportunities in North Western Victoria

29-07-2022

Medical students and doctors seeking rural and regional study and work are now supported to see how they can live, work and train rurally to achieve their dream career.

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Boost for Ballarat patiants

29-07-2022

The State Government is delivering another boost for regional Victoria’s health system, as part of a comprehensive plan to make sure patients are getting the quality care they need while there is record demand on the national health system.

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Home-based health care

26-07-2022

Tens of thousands of Victorians are taking up the home-based care programs across the state – easing pressure on the health system – with nearly 56,000 people receiving care from the comfort of their home since Better at Home started last year.

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Keeping kids active

25-07-2022

More kids in Hepburn Shire are getting active and fostering the talents of Victoria’s future sports stars, with more support for schools to offer exciting sports programs and encourage physical activity.

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To your health

21-07-2022

IN THE last edition of The Local, journalist Kevin Childs wrote of the sick state of the health system. He talked, anonymously, to a number of healthcare workers who outlined myriad examples of people being badly let down by the system.

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End of an era for Peter

18-07-2022

An advert in the local paper - and his wife’s avid reading - led Peter Matthews to the Board of Kyneton District Health. After almost a decade as a board director, including a long stint as board chair, the Woodend local is stepping down from the now Central Highlands Rural Health.

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Funding for skilled mental health workers

15-07-2022

Minister for Mental Health Gabrielle Williams has unveiled the Regional Mental Health Workforce Incentives program, which aims to attract and retain workers in state-funded mental health and alcohol and other drug (AOD) services across rural and regional Victoria.

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Just sayin’..

09-07-2022

IF YOU flip back to page 11 you will find Kevin Childs' story on the sad or sick state of our health system. Kevin talked to health workers, on the condition of anonymity, and wrote about how many things are going wrong - some life and death situations.

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The sick state of our health system

05-07-2022

ACROSS the country, a medical crisis seems to have erupted. Some rural hospitals have become so short of staff the military has been called in. In the cities, reports abound of lines of ambulances and crowded waiting rooms.

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Ageing well and time to talk

04-07-2022

CLUNES is a place of firsts. First gold town. First Book Town and now the first country town to tackle the issue of ageing well in the community by bringing the conversation right to its own door.

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Surge in need for emergency care

26-06-2022

Grampians Ballarat Health said over the weekend of 25 and 25 June, it had again experienced a significant increased need for emergency care and an increased demand to manage and isolate COVID-19 affected patients, and those suspected to have COVID-19 or respiratory illnesses like the flu.

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For the love of cats…and all animals

24-06-2022

REGIONAL Community Vet Clinic, a Mt Alexander Shire based non-profit organisation, was generously gifted an anonymous donation from cat lovers in the community to host the clinic's first de-sexing day at the end of May.

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Hospital redevelopment

06-06-2022

STATE Health Minister Martin Foley visited Daylesford Hospital last week to announce the $4.548 million upgrade of its operating theatres will start late this year.

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Delivering stronger health services in Daylesford

11-06-2022

The State Government is delivering the best healthcare for communities in the Central Highlands with plans progressing for a $4.5 million upgrade of Daylesford Hospital’s operating theatres.

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Community input on mineral springs

31-05-2022

The Department of Environment Land Water and Planning (DELWP) is seeking community input into how people use and value Victoria’s mineral springs.

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Dispose of unwanted chemicals

30-05-2022

Victorians are being urged to safely dispose of unwanted household chemicals with an additional $4 million funding for the Detox Your Home program.

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Japanese encephalitis update

30-05-2022

Agriculture Victoria is working closely with both the pig and horse industries in response to Japanese encephalitis.

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Bovine fever

29-05-2022

With the wet summer of 2022, this has been the year of insect borne diseases. Initially, reports of cases of Ross River Virus and Murray Valley Encephalitis in horses were received.

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Cannibas medicinal trials

29-05-2022

In 2016, Victoria legalised the use of medicinal cannabis, and since then scientists have improved strains to produce better health products.

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Flu shots for kids

28-05-2022

With the flu on the rise for the first time in three years, community pharmacists across Victoria can now administer the seasonal flu vaccine to anyone aged 5 years and over – taking pressure off GPs and boosting the number of vaccine providers by 600.

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Celebrating Daylesford Hospital

30-05-2022

Daylesford Hospital was officially opened on 22 May 1862 so this May, it is celebrating 160 years of serving the people of Daylesford and the surrounding districts.

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Pandemic far from over, according to Nancy

23-05-2022

PROFESSOR Nancy Baxter is The University of Melbourne's Head of the Melbourne School of Population and Global Health. A clinical epidemiologist, general surgeon and health services researcher, she has been in the forefront of the fight against Covid. She chatted with Donna Kelly about the pandemic.

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Horoscopes May 23rd to June 6th

22-05-2022

The planets are all making some big moves in this fortnight window. We see driven and determined Mars moving into its home sign of Aries on May 25th giving extra oomph and energy to the Aries part of your chart. Harmonious Venus also moves into a place of rulership in the sign of Taurus on the 29th and the Sun shifts into the sign of Gemini on May 22nd signalling birthday time for our Gemini friends!

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Funding for kids with a disability

19-05-2022

The state government is boosting funding for Victorian schools to support kids with disability, to ensure they have the tools they need to learn and thrive in the classroom and in life.

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Japanese encephalitis update

17-05-2022

Agriculture Victoria is working closely with both the pig and horse industries in response to Japanese encephalitis.

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COVID-19 Vaccination Update

15-05-2022

INFORMATION FOR PEOPLE WHO HAVE RECOVERED FROM COVID-19

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Horoscopes with Jennifer Hart May 9 – May 23

08-05-2022

The dreamy month of April has come to a close and we find ourselves moving into a more action-oriented time. With expansive Jupiter and energizing Mars moving into the pro-active sign of Aries this month, there are topics in your life that might get a boost, or you have the ability to level up in some way. Fair Venus has moved into fast-paced Aries as well, we all need to mind our impulse spending for the next few weeks. Mischievous Mercury turns retrograde from May 10th, a phenomenon that gives the illusion that this planet is moving backwards across the sky. In fact, it’s due to our point of view from Earth and the orbital cycle of Mercury that bring about this effect three to four times a year. It’s a time to reassess, reconnect, reunite, or revisit certain areas of our lives. It is commonly known for causing technology glitches, miscommunications, and misunderstandings but I find it great for wrapping up any projects that have been languishing on my desk. The second Eclipse (they always happen in pairs) takes place on May 17th and can be a continuation of the stories that have been kicking around since last month. Read on to see how you might harness the power of the planets. If you know your rising sign, start there first.

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Better care at home

05-05-2022

Thousands more Victorians will now get access to the best clinicians, allied health professionals and nurses from the comfort of their own homes thanks to a massive funding boost in the Victorian Budget 2022/23.

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New road campaign

22-04-2022

The Victorian Government has released a new campaign urging motorists to avoid complacency behind the wheel with majority of deaths on Victorian roads caused by simple errors.

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New entries for Ballarat Base Hospital

22-04-2022

In addition to building state-of-the-art theatres, a women and children’s hub and a new emergency department, the state government will boost accessibility and safety at the Ballarat Base Hospital by creating two new entrances separating emergency vehicles and the public.

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Kids not safe in cars

21-04-2022

Concerning statistics from Kidsafe which found nine out of ten Victorian kids are not safe in the car have promoted a call for parents and carers to make sure their child car restraints are installed correctly.

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Free RATs

15-04-2022

Free rapid antigen tests (RATs) are being given to eligible people with disability.

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Turn on, tune in, drop out with Jeff Glorfeld

15-04-2022

THERE'S a joke told on baby boomers that goes: “If you remember the 1960s, you weren’t there.” The funniest part about that old witticism is that no one remembers for certain who said it first.

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5000 Club back

13-04-2022

After several years of necessary closure, the 5000 Club has decided to re-open operations. President Loretta Little said the first day back would be a celebration on Friday, April 29 at noon at the Victoria Park Pavilion.

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Good Friday Appeal: Cash, card, online, cheque

12-04-2022

IT’S that time of year – Easter and the Good Friday Appeal for the Royal Children’s Hospital.

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Vicki on Team Vaccination at the Top End

11-04-2022

MOST people take long service leave to get away from work. Not so Vicki Sundblom.

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Duck talk

08-04-2022

Kirsten Diprose lives and farms near Caramut in the state’s south west. She’s the co-collaborator of ‘Ducks on a Pond’, a podcast series connecting and sharing stories and advice among rural women on the land. 

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Rabbit woes?

08-04-2022

Are rabbits a problem in your garden or small land holding? Would you like to know more about best practice rabbit control in regional communities?

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Accessible information & support is critical for the wellbeing of Australians with IBD 

07-04-2022

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects around 100,000 Australians – that’s 1 in every 250 people living with chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. With no cure for the disease, access to relevant and up-to-date information, and a strong support network to manage this chronic illness, are vital.  

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New strategy for family growth

06-04-2022

Hepburn Shire Council has developed a draft Early and Middle Years Strategy 2022-2030 which aims to plan and prepare for family growth and the development needs of early years and middle years children. 

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Regional recovery

06-04-2022

Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas has visited the Ballarat and District Aboriginal Cooperative (BADAC) to announce a $2.6 million grant, one of many projects funded through the Regional Infrastructure Fund – Round 2.

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Help for pregnant women

06-04-2022

Dozens of vulnerable pregnant women experiencing homelessness or insecure housing are being given access to a safe place to live and valuable support though maternity and early parenting services.

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Japanese encephalitis update

Agriculture Victoria is working closely with both the pig and horse industries in response to Japanese encephalitis.

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