May 22nd, 2026The quiet strength of community

In rural and regional areas, access to healthcare is shaped by things like geography, workforce availability and infrastructure. But perhaps most important are the dedicated volunteers who show up each day to cover so many roles.

Volunteers bridge the gap that distance and limited resources can create, while providing companionship and friendship throughout people’s healthcare journey.
Across the Hepburn and Macedon Ranges shires, from Clunes, Creswick and Daylesford to Kyneton and Trentham, the support, effort, time and commitment shown by our Central Highlands Rural Health volunteers is remarkable.
Our volunteers take on their chosen roles with generosity and commitment, and their presence transforms clinical environments into places full of warmth and connection – spaces where people are not just treated but truly cared for.
Our volunteers deliver meals, ensuring our residents have access to fresh food and connection. They provide friendship and time to aged care residents and hospital patients, even sitting for hours on end with our dialysis recipients, helping pass the time with friendship and presence.
Many volunteers also lend an extra pair of hands at working bees, gardens, fundraising activities, entertainment and social support programs. We also have a number of volunteers who use their experience and professional skills to help us shape the future of our local health network by being on a variety of committees.
Our volunteer cohort is as diverse as the communities they serve. Retirees, students, professionals, and community members from all walks of life and unique experiences coming together with a shared purpose – to give back. And we are a stronger health network because of their selfless contribution.
If you’re interested in volunteering with Central Highlands Rural Health and want to find out more, please email Di.Connors@chrh.org.au