Murray to Moyne team raises $14,700 for Women’s Health Hub

East Grampians Health Service’s Cranks and Defibrillators have raised $14,760 towards the purchase of a portable ultrasound machine for the new Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub at the EGHS Community Health Centre.

The team wrapped up its fund raising recently, after a successful 525-kilometre relay from Echuca to Port Fairy in April.

The team of 12 riders, and support crew of four bus drivers, were thrilled to exceed their goal of $10,000 and are excited to see the equipment when it arrives at the new Health Hub.

“Congratulations to our team of riders and support crew on a successful and by all accounts enjoyable ride, as well as on their fundraising efforts, which included the Ararat Market, Trivia Night, Bowls Night, raffles and team sponsorship,” EGHS chief executive Nick Bush said.

“You are wonderful ambassadors for East Grampians Health Service and continue the long tradition of more than 25 years of our health service participating in this popular annual event, raising in excess of $250,000 in that time.”

Mr Bush also thanked the many businesses, organisations and individuals who provided sponsorship and donations to the team.

“We are very grateful for the generosity of our community, who have provided valuable funds towards the new equipment for Health Hub, as well as in kind donations that enable our team to run successful fundraisers,” he said.

“Thank you to everyone who has contributed towards this project, your support of the health service does not go unnoticed.” Operated by East Grampians Health Service within the EGHS Community Health Centre, the hub offers free or low-cost confidential care with no referral required – including for contraception, medical abortion, referral for surgical abortion, and the testing, diagnosis and treatment of STIs.

It will also help avoid long-term health issues through treatments such as physiotherapy and education for pelvic floor issues, reducing the likelihood of incontinence and the need for ongoing care and possible hospitalisation.

Director of Community Services Sarah Woodburn said East Grampians Health Service is excited to offer access to sexual and reproductive health care to women and girls from the Ararat region, close to home without the need to travel and without the need for a referral.

“Thank you to our Murray to Moyne team for your support of this project and support of the new Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub,” Ms Woodburn said.