EGHS posts surplus after challenging year

East Grampians Health Service posted an operating surplus of $230k for the financial year ended June 30, 2024.

EGHS Board Treasurer Kym Peter said at the 29th annual general meeting of the health service, that this financial report, while positive, came after another challenging year for the health service.

“A year on from the COVID operating conditions, EGHS like most other health services across the state commenced the year with a deficit operating budget,” Mr Peter said.

“Ultimately, as a result of the Department of Health support and by managing expenditure, East Grampians Health Service was able to achieve its surplus result for the year.”

Mr Peter said EGHS continues to plan for the future with its ongoing capital development and investment in staff development.

“We continued our program of capital replacement and renewal this year with $1.36 million of additions. This was made up of items of plant and equipment and building re-development,” Mr Peter said.

“A highlight this year was the re-development and opening of the maternity consulting suites and inpatient departure lounge. This development provides dedicated rooms for obstetric consulting and a wonderful space for exiting inpatients to relax while waiting to go home. This valuable addition was made possible by the generous support of Mrs Monika Kapp.

“EGHS also commenced the installation a new CT scanner in June. Major projects like this are funded predominantly by the Department of Health through their capital division. Support has also been received from the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation – Ararat Branch, the East Grampians Health Service Building for the Future Foundation plus private donations and bequests.”

Mr Peter said that any fundraising, donations or bequests received from the community are separately accounted for and do not go to fund operating deficits. They are used for capital projects and supporting staff development that have an enduring benefit for the community or in specific alignment with the wishes of the donor.

“We publicly and humbly thank all those who have donated or have been involved in fundraising efforts,” Mr Peter said.

“Finally, I would like to highlight the ongoing commitment we have to staff development at East Grampians Health Service. The health service sees the support of staff through training and development as crucial to ensuring the success of the service into the future.

“While this can take various forms, we would especially like to thank the generous support of Monika and Joe Kapp, Keith Little, Geoff Laidlaw and family the East Grampians Health Service Building for the Future Foundation and the Epworth Foundation for their scholarship programs.”