2023 Annual Report

It is pleasing to launch the 2023 BCH Annual Report and report that the financial turnaround strategy implemented by the Board of Directors in 2020 has achieved significant success, with the operating result (excluding depreciation, donated land and capital income) for 2022-23 being a small deficit of $80k.

This result has been achieved by a continuing focus on productivity and funded target achievement. While adapting to this concept has not been without its challenges, our staff have responded positively, with targets met consistently and client feedback reflecting the high quality of care delivered.

Along with financial results, the culture of the organisation has continued to improve. This has been demonstrated on numerous occasions where successful recruitment has been shown to be the result of people seeking to work at BCH as a matter of choice. It is undoubtedly clear that our staff work with our clients who are at the centre of all decision making.

Some of the major highlights for the year are:

• Successful outcomes achieved in the NDIS Mid-Cycle Review, and accreditation under the National Safety and Quality Primary and Community Health Care Standards – BCH was amongst the first agencies to undergo this review, with positive results and comments from the auditors

• The redeveloped Portarlington building was opened in April. This project allowed the restart of group programs at the site after a long absence. Clients are enjoying the large, light-filled space The Portarlington Ladies Auxiliary has occupied a significantly larger space for the “Op-Shop” created as part of this project. It is reported that business is booming!

• We publicly announced the donation of a block of land by the Corless family, developers of the Kingston Estate in Ocean Grove, to BCH. This land will be the site of our new child, youth and family hub that will serve the Bellarine community as it continues to grow over coming years. Without the support of the Corless Family and funding from the Commonwealth Government, this project could not proceed.

• BCH continues to be an active member of the Alliance of Rural & Regional Health (ARRCH). This group has been successful in raising the profile of community
health as a major contributor to the overall health sector in Victoria. Several proposals have been put to government for new and innovative statewide services and we are awaiting the outcome of these submissions.

We sincerely thank our Volunteers, Staff, Executive Team and Directors for their continued diligence, passion, and commitment to providing services to our community. Each individual or collective action makes a positive difference, and as a team, the outcomes are multiplied. We also thank and recognise our
funders, including the State and Commonwealth governments, donors and philanthropists, and other stakeholders and partners who make what we do possible.

To view the 2023 BCH Annual Report click HERE.

Fay Agterhuis, BCH Chair & Garry Ellis, CEO

2023 Annual Report