Patients in South Gippsland can now access lymphoedema monitoring locally, after community donations funded a SOZO bioimpedance machine for Bayside Health’s Korumburra Hospital.
Community’s generosity enhances healthcare
July 3, 2026
Bayside Health’s Lymphoedema Therapist Aimee Morrison with members of the Lyrebird Auxiliary (left to right, Joy Robb, Jo Boyd, Lyn Yeomans, Lyndy Elliott and Robyn Powney) and the new SOZO machine at Korumburra Hospital.
Until now, South Gippsland residents with the chronic condition, which can cause life-long swelling, heaviness and pain usually in the arms or legs, were required to travel outside the region to access the monitoring technology. The machine was made possible through $11,200 donated by VLE Operations Pty Ltd and RLX Operating Company Pty Ltd, and a further $4,000 contribution from the Lyrebird Auxiliary.
Private donations were made by Reginald Hannay, Maxine Crapper, John McClimpha, Leongatha TOPIC Club, Mary-Anne Somers, Julie Drysdale, Renee McLennan, Robyn Powney, Petra Cassai and St Peter’s Ladies Guild. Another donor wished to remain anonymous.
Lymphoedema can develop following cancer treatment, surgery or injury, and once established, is a lifelong condition. With timely intervention, progression can be prevented or significantly reduced.
The SOZO also captures body composition data to support management of chronic conditions, giving clinicians a more complete picture of a patient's overall health.
Allied Health Manager at Korumburra and Leongatha Memorial hospitals, Sara Mullery, said the technology would strengthen how her team manages and treats lymphoedema.
"Having a SOZO gives a better picture of nutrition risk, helps track goals like reducing fat or gaining muscle, and means we can better tailor care plans to each individual,” Sara said.
Aimee Morrison, Lymphoedema Therapist, thanked the community for their support.
"Everyone who has donated has given someone the chance to live with the hope of regaining their quality of life,” she said.
Bayside Health Regional CEO Louise Sparkes thanked the donors for their contribution to local healthcare.
"This is exactly what community partnership looks like. The generosity shown here will make a real difference to patients in our region for years to come,” she said.