As a small rural health service, Koo Wee Rup Regional Health Service continues to deliver high-quality, inclusive care while preparing for a transformative future through the establishment of the Bayside Health. Over this year we commenced laying the groundwork for the new Bayside Health, merging Kooweerup Regional Health Service with Gippsland Southern Health Service, Bass Coast Health, Peninsula Health and Alfred Health in January 2026. This strategic alliance will deliver more coordinated, accessible care across our sub-region, optimise specialised services while maintaining local access, and leverage shared resources for clinical excellence and infrastructure.
We thank our Board of Directors and Executive team for their leadership and steadfast support during this period of transformational change. As a small rural health service, we continue to meet the requirements set out in the Victorian Government’s Annual Statement of Priorities. Highlights include achieving our performance targets, treating over 2,060 patients (across admitted and non-admitted care) with a 92% average bed occupancy rate. We delivered 4,167 allied health sessions and 2,383 community nursing visits (inclusive of Hospital in the Home (HITH) and GEM@home).
As one of the largest employers in Koo Wee Rup, we expanded our team to 250 staff (145 FTE). To foster a caring and connected workplace, we focused on building a strong leadership team and relaunched the Peer Support Program, upskilling staff in active listening, confidentiality, and referral pathways. We delivered professional development in topics such as leadership, managing through change, psychological safety and cultural safety, Additionally, we introduced flexible rostering, reducing staff turnover to 8 per cent.
Recognising the health sector’s contribution to national carbon emissions, our staff co-developed Accelerating Towards Net Zero: A Guide for the Australian Health System. In collaboration with the Transitions to Sustainable Health Systems Consortium, insights were gathered from clinicians, policymakers and researchers; 30 practical actions to reduce emissions across clinical and operational areas were identified.
We look forward to continuing the implementation of practical actions including energy-efficient upgrades in our hospital and aged-care facilities. These initiatives position Kooweerup Regional Health Service as an innovator in environmentally responsible healthcare.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to our volunteers and supporters. This year we celebrated 70 years of service by our Ladies Auxiliary, whose fundraising has underpinned generations of care. We welcomed 85 active volunteers who contributed over 4,468 hours to patient and resident support, transport and hospitality; and engaged local businesses and service clubs to raise $15,943.03 for resources including new medical equipment.