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# Bellarine Community Health

With you for life

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://bch.org.au/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [World Environment Day](https://bch.org.au/world-environment-day/) - Today marks the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day and the focus this year is finding solutions to plastic pollution. Sometimes little things can make a big difference, so Bellarine Community Health has been making many small changes which we believe will have a big impact. BCH is taking steps by using compostable or recyclable cups
- [No Tobacco Day](https://bch.org.au/no-tobacco-day/) - On Wednesday 31st of May it will be World No Tobacco Day. This is a global day to share information about smoking and vaping, including facts and support services. “In the past three years, an astonishing 77,200 Victorian adults took up vaping who’d previously never smoked, tripling their risk of taking up smoking. The number
- [Palliative Care Week](https://bch.org.au/palliative-care-week/) - National Palliative Care Week (NPCW) 2023 is running this week to raise awareness about palliative care and put ‘Matters of Life and Death’ front and centre in Australia’s consciousness. The personal stories that are shared during National Palliative Care Week will open the door on the full scope and impact of palliative care and the
- [Community Forum](https://bch.org.au/community-forum/) - A community forum hosted by Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has brought together organisations and community groups from across Geelong and the Bellarine, in a bid to identify and understand any unmet health and wellbeing needs of the community. The forum, held at the Bellarine Training & Community Hub in Ocean Grove this week, attracted more
- [Little Growers get into the garden at Portarlington Preschool](https://bch.org.au/little-growers-get-into-the-garden-at-portarlington-preschool/) - Portarlington Preschool have been getting hands on in the veggie garden, setting up their garden beds ready for winter, as part of the Little Growers program. Little Growers sessions at the Preschool included a 'building good soil' workshop and two Story Times in the Garden with local librarian Nikki and Laura from the Healthy Communities
- [Art Installation at BCH](https://bch.org.au/art-installation-at-bch/) - Several colourful hand-crafted totems have been installed at Bellarine Community Health (BCH) sites around the Bellarine. The three-metre-tall art installations are the final stage of a community art connection project originally funded by Bellarine Community Health. The project aimed to improve social connectedness and wellbeing by engaging people with an illness or a disability through
- [Vaping reforms welcomed](https://bch.org.au/vaping-reforms-welcomed/) - Bellarine Community Health welcomes the Federal Government's Plan to regulate vaping to protect all Australians from the harms created by Big Tobacco and the vaping industry. The reforms will tighten regulations on highly dangerous and additive nicotine vaping products. Healthy Communities Planner Lauren Purser, said local work in this area, along with tighter legislation from
- [Bellarine Youth Shine at Geelong Youth Awards](https://bch.org.au/bellarine-youth-shine-at-geelong-youth-awards/) - 2023 Geelong Youth Awards The Geelong Youth Awards recognise and celebrate young people who have made significant contributions in the areas of leadership, culture awareness, community work, sport, arts, music and youth development. The Awards Night for 2023 was a wonderful event, with performances and presentations from the Geelong Youth Council and Geelong Mayor, Trent
- [Event - Growing Our Future Festival](https://bch.org.au/event-growing-our-future-festival/) - The Growing Our Future Festival is a celebration of the first ever harvest from the market garden at Bellarine Secondary College, built by Farm My School, a non-for-profit organisation, in partnership with Bellarine Community Health and Bellarine Secondary College. This event marks the official launch of Farm My School Inc, a young organisation with big
- [Electric Vehicle Charger Installed](https://bch.org.au/electric-vehicle-charger-installed/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has installed an electric vehicle (EV) charger at its Portarlington site, the first EV charger on the Northern Bellarine. This initiative is part of BCH’s ongoing commitment to mitigate the impact of climate change through actions to reduce the carbon footprint of both the organisation and the local community. “We recognise
- [Active OUR Way Snorkel Program Success](https://bch.org.au/active-our-way-snorkel-program-success/) - We are thrilled to share that BCH has just completed another exciting element of its 'Active OUR Way' program! Over the last four weeks in March, approximately 180 students from grades 4, 5 & 6 entered the water with a big splash by participating in a local Bellarine Snorkel program. BCH is proud to be
- [International Women's Day](https://bch.org.au/international-womens-day/) - Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender equal future is the theme for this year's International Women’s Day (IWD). IWD was first born out of labour movements at the turn of the twentieth century in North America and across Europe. Since those early days, International Women’s Day has grown in prominence and reach, touching women in
- [Mosquito-borne disease warning](https://bch.org.au/mosquito-borne-disease-warning/) - The Barwon South West Pubic Health Unit (BSWPHU) is urging people travelling or camping over the upcoming public holidays to ensure you are up-to-date with the latest advice to be protected from mosquito-borne diseases. Mosquitos are the deadliest living creatures on earth, carrying diseases that kill three quarters of a million people worldwide each year.
- [BCH launches Smile Squad](https://bch.org.au/bch-launches-smile-squad/) - Students across the Bellarine Peninsula are set to receive free, high quality dental care without having to leave the school grounds. In the coming months a friendly Smile Squad team from Bellarine Community Health will arrive on site in their bright orange van to carry out oral health examinations. The 2019/20 Victorian State Budget announced
- [Brae Farmer and Farm My School](https://bch.org.au/brae-farmer-and-farm-my-school/) - Head farmer from the award-winning Brae restaurant in Birregurra, Nina Breidahl has been appointed as the new regenerative farmer for the Farm My School pilot project on the Bellarine Peninsula. Farm My School is a not-for-profit association, working to transform unused land within schools, into regenerative market gardens providing food to the local community. Breidahl,
- [Healthy Lunchbox Week 5 -11 Feb](https://bch.org.au/healthy-lunchbox-week-5-11-feb/) - Every week should be healthy lunchbox week, but next week as the kids go back to school the spotlight is really on how to create a healthy lunchbox. A varied lunch gives children the best chance to concentrate better and have energy to learn, play and grow. For a healthy lunchbox PICK and MIX foods
- [Community Health First Campaign](https://bch.org.au/community-health-first-campaign/) - Bellarine Community Health is proud to be supporting the Community Health First campaign which is advocating for the elevation of the role of registered independent community health services in Victoria’s healthcare system. Community Health First is a campaign being led by all 24 registered independent community health services in Victoria. The Community Health First campaign
- [Nurse Practitioner Week](https://bch.org.au/nurse-practitioner-week/) - The annual Nurse Practitioner (NP) Week is celebrated during the month of December because that is the month NPs were first endorsed in Australia in the year 2000. Nurse Practitioners are the essential difference in healthcare and Bellarine Community Health has a dedicated NP leading the BCH Palliative Care team. Nurse Practitioners are proud of
- [Healthy Workplace Milestone Reached](https://bch.org.au/healthy-workplace-milestone-reached/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has received Victorian Government recognition for creating an active and healthy workplace. The recognition is through the Workplace Achievement Program, which is an evidence-based health and wellbeing program that helps create a healthier workplace environment. The program is aligned with the World Health Organisations’ Health Workplace Model and is delivered by
- [BCH finalist in health awards](https://bch.org.au/bch-finalist-in-health-awards/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is thrilled to be named as a finalist in the 2022 Victorian Health Promotion Awards. BCH is one of 36 finalists being recognised for their commitment to the health and wellbeing of communities across Victoria. There are nine award categories, and the BCH Youth Guerrilla Garden is a finalist in the
- [Respect Women: Call it Out](https://bch.org.au/respect-women-call-it-out/) - Friday 25 November marks the beginning of 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence, a global initiative to prevent violence against women. The 16 Days of Activism campaign was started by activists at the inaugural Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991 and continues to be coordinated each year by UN Women. It is used as
- [BCH Annual General Meeting](https://bch.org.au/bch-annual-general-meeting/) - The Bellarine Community Health Ltd (BCH) Annual General Meeting has been held with financial members informed the Company has recorded an operating surplus for the financial year. The overall financial result for 2021/2022 is $632 K (before capital income and depreciation). “We are pleased to report that BCH is successfully implementing its turnaround strategy, despite
- [BCH 2021 - 2022 Annual Report](https://bch.org.au/bch-2021-2022-annual-report/) - Bellarine Community Health is pleased to present the 2021 - 2022 Annual Report. The Annual Report is a key point in the reporting year for all organisations. It is the opportunity to publicly reflect on achievements, to acknowledge the work of the organisation, the contributions of stakeholders, staff and volunteers and to celebrate milestones reached.
- [Christmas Fair](https://bch.org.au/christmas-fair/) - Bellarine Community Health's Social Support program has staged a highly successful Christmas Fair engaging clients, staff and our community. Staff and clients worked for several weeks to create handmade crafts and gifts, potted plants and cakes and slices to sell at the fair. Staff and community members also spent weeks knitting and crocheting to yarn
- [BCH launches 'Active OUR Way'](https://bch.org.au/bch-launches-active-our-way/) - Bellarine Community Health has launched an exciting new program with three Bellarine school communities called ‘Active OUR Way!’. BCH is working closely with St Leonards, Leopold and Portarlington Primary Schools on this collaborative project which aims to get more children, young people and families on the Bellarine Peninsula moving more often, in ways that suit
- [BCH launches new nature-based story time program](https://bch.org.au/bch-launches-new-nature-based-story-time-program/) - An innovative new nature-based program introducing preschool children to story times in a garden setting hopes to ‘plant a seed within families’ that fosters an ongoing connection to community gardens and their local public library. The ‘Little Growers: Story time in the Garden’ is a partnership project between Bellarine Community Health (BCH) and Geelong Regional
- [Celebrating 50 years of Community Health Care](https://bch.org.au/celebrating-50-years-of-community-health-care/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Queenscliff & District Community Health Centre (QDCHC), Victoria’s first ever Community Health Centre. Residents, former senior staff and CEOs and many people who had a hand in fund raising over the years gathered at BCH Point Lonsdale for a photographic display to mark the
- [Foot Health Week](https://bch.org.au/foot-health-week/) - October 10 - 16 is Foot Health Week - the nationally recognised health awareness campaign run annually in October promoting good foot health and the important role podiatrists play in keeping Australian’s pain-free and moving. Podiatrists are foot health experts, that assess, treat, and keep you on your feet. At Bellarine Community Health we have
- [World First Pilot Project](https://bch.org.au/world-first-pilot-project/) - Imagine a school that can feed its community. A farm built within a school. Bellarine Secondary College (BSC), Bellarine Community Health (BCH) and Farm My School Ltd. (FMS) founders, Ben Shaw and James McLennan are inviting the community to join them in a ground-breaking event to launch the ‘Farm My School’ project. “Come along and
- [Art and story-telling workshop for nature-loving young people with our Youth Guerrilla Garden](https://bch.org.au/art-workshop-youth-garden/) - Learn ‘Nature journaling and storytelling’ from Trace Bella in a workshop for nature-loving young people Calling all creative nature-loving young people: Learn from award-winning artist/illustrator Trace Balla. Trace is a ‘story catcher’ who finds inspiration in nature and incorporates local plants and animal species into her detailed, cartoon-style drawings. Do you like graphic novels or
- [Speech Pathology Week](https://bch.org.au/speech-pathology-week/) - Good communication means a better community on the Bellarine From August 21 until August 27, Bellarine Community Health is celebrating Speech Pathology Week. This is a week where speech pathologists around Australia highlight the work we do within our communities and share information about our wider profession. During Speech Pathology Week, the speech pathology team
- [New GP Clinic Service Provider at Portarlington](https://bch.org.au/new-gp-clinic-service-provider-at-portarlington/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) and Epichealth have today announced a new partnership to provide General Practice (GP) services from the BCH site in Portarlington. The partnership sees Epichealth take over the day-to-day and financial operations of the GP clinic, while BCH will continue to run the allied health and social support services from the Fenwick
- [Dying To Know Day](https://bch.org.au/dying-to-know-day/) - Each year on August the 8th we talk about dying. Sounds crazy right! But it shouldn’t sound crazy because talking about death and dying is exactly what we should be doing. The Dying to Know campaign and Dying to Know Day aim to improve death literacy and positivity in individuals, communities, healthcare workers and other
- [BCH supporting the environment](https://bch.org.au/bch-supporting-the-environment/) - We're excited to be part of the exclusive community screening of ‘Regenerating Australia’ which is the latest short film from director of ‘2040’ and ‘That Sugar Film’, Damon Gameau. This uplifting and inspiring short film takes the perspective of a New Year’s Eve TV news bulletin in 2029. It looks back at this pivotal decade
- [Garden workshop reaps rewards](https://bch.org.au/garden-workshop-reaps-rewards/) - The recent Youth Guerrilla Garden working bee behind the headspace Ocean Grove site reaped lots of rewards. Not only did the Guerrilla Garden Crew welcome four new members to their ranks, they also harvested loads of organic veggies including kale, lettuce, spring onions and bok choy. The focus of the working bee and workshop was
- [Youth collaboration to lead climate change on the Bellarine](https://bch.org.au/youth-collaboration-to-lead-climate-change-on-the-bellarine/) - Bellarine Community Health representatives along with members of the City of Greater Geelong’s Youth Team and Bellarine Secondary College students have undertaken facilitator training to deliver 'OzGREEN's' ' Youth Leading the World Youth Agents of Change' program for young people living on the Bellarine. OzGREEN is an independent not-for-profit organisation that operates in Australia and
- [Dental Health Week Top Tips For Your Teeth](https://bch.org.au/dental-health-week-top-tips-for-your-teeth/) - You know that old saying ‘you are what you eat’! Well, that’s especially true when it comes to the health of your teeth. Almost half of us still consume too much sugar as part of our diet and that has a major impact on the health of your teeth and body. Glenys Bloomfield is the
- [Podiatrist support Diabetes diagnosis](https://bch.org.au/podiatrist-support-diabetes-diagnosis/) - Diabetes foot disease is the leading cause of morbidity, mortality and healthcare cost burdens in Australia. Amputation is often a consequence of diabetes, yet 80 per cent of diabetes related amputations are preventable. Each year, diabetes related foot disease affects 50,000 people with another 300,000 people having risk factors for developing foot disease. Our BCH
- [New free mental health program for adults](https://bch.org.au/new-free-mental-health-program-for-adults/) - Has Covid-19 left you concerned about your mental health? Would you like to learn more about how to manage anxious or depressive feelings? Bellarine Community Health is running a new mental health program for adults. It's a series of free mental health and wellbeing education sessions for adults every Tuesday for a six week period.
- [Clients share a cuppa with kids](https://bch.org.au/clients-share-a-cuppa-with-kids/) - This week, Bellarine Community Health (BCH) clients and Point Lonsdale Primary School Grade 5/6 students came together to ‘share a cuppa’ in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. June 15 is recognised worldwide as the day to highlight the rights of older people in our community and the need to prevent elder abuse, commonly
- [Jubilee celebrations for Social Support clients](https://bch.org.au/jubilee-celebrations-for-social-support-clients/) - Bellarine Community Health's Social Support team couldn't let Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee celebrations pass without a party. The BCH team and the volunteers who support the program put together some very special luncheons for clients across the week. A special menu was created featuring 'Coronation Chicken' sandwiches and a 'Platinum Pudding' (trifle) which was apparently
- [Dental wait times slashed](https://bch.org.au/dental-wait-times-slashed/) - Waiting times for public dental appointments at Bellarine Community Health (BCH) have been dramatically reduced thanks to additional Federal Government funding provided through Dental Health Services Victoria. Since December last year, BCH has reduced wait times for public general dental treatment from 36 months to nine months, with more than 1,700 patients offered care during
- [Palliative Care - Let's talk about death](https://bch.org.au/palliative-care-lets-talk-about-death/) - What does it mean to have a good death? What does palliative care mean? Death is the one guarantee in life, yet for many of us, it’s something we just don’t talk about. National Palliative Care Week, held from 22 – 28 May 2022, is Australia’s largest annual awareness-raising initiative held to increase understanding of
- [BCH Memorial Service](https://bch.org.au/bch-memorial-service/) - It has been an incredibly difficult two years for many people who have had a loved one die during the Covid-19 pandemic. Many families were unable to hold a funeral for their loved one or celebrate their loved one’s life in a group setting. Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has supported many families during the pandemic
- [BCH launches 2022- 2025 Strategic Plan](https://bch.org.au/bch-launches-2022-2025-strategic-plan/) - Board Chair Fay Agterhuis and CEO Garry Ellis have presented the 2022 - 2025 Strategic Plan to BCH members, partners, community groups, staff, and volunteers. During two online forums the pair were able to discuss the extensive engagement process that helped develop the plan and outline how the BCH Purpose Statement and Guiding Principles will
- [National EoE Awareness Week](https://bch.org.au/national-eos-awareness-week/) - This week (August 6–12) marks National EoE Awareness Week, a campaign aimed at raising awareness of eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases (EGIDs), including eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) – a little-known but potentially debilitating condition affecting swallowing and digestion. EoE is caused by inflammation in the oesophagus, often triggered by an allergic reaction to food or environmental factors. Symptoms
- [BCH Nurse raising funds for Cancer research](https://bch.org.au/bch-nurse-raising-funds-for-cancer-research/) - A BELLARINE COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSE, HER BEST MATE, AND A CAR CALLED SVEN ARE TAKING ON THE OUTBACK FOR CANCER RESEARCH For Bellarine Community Health (BCH) Nurse Beryl Downey, a road trip across thousands of kilometres of outback in a car that might not make it isn't a daunting prospect, it's an adventure worth having,
- [Community Health Sector dealt a blow](https://bch.org.au/community-health-sector-dealt-a-blow/) - Media Statement from Community Health First – 21 July 2026 The Community Health Program has supported Victorians since 1973, providing local services to those most in need of health care and social support, often those who have fallen through the gaps of mainstream services. But yearly indexation has not kept pace with cost-of-living pressures, inflation,
- [Beating the Winter Blues](https://bch.org.au/beating-the-winter-blues/) - BEATING THE WINTER BLUES, ONE WARM BOWL OF SOUP AT A TIME Winter can be a lonely season. As the temperature drops, many people find themselves spending long stretches indoors, away from the company and connection that keep us going. To help combat these winter blues, Bellarine Community Health (BCH), in partnership with the Bellarine
- [Donate your cans to BCH](https://bch.org.au/donate-your-cans-to-bch/) - Exciting news to share - BCH is officially registered as an approved donation partner for Victoria's Container Deposit Scheme (CDS). This is a great opportunity to not only raise funds for BCH but also be part of the recycling community and support efforts towards reducing our carbon footprint. The Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) provides a
- [Advance Care Planning](https://bch.org.au/advance-care-planning/) - National Advance Care Planning Week 2026 in Australia runs from 16–22 March, focusing on empowering individuals to plan and communicate their future healthcare preferences. Advance Care Planning is the process for planning for future health and personal care. It allows for the individual’s values and preferences to be known to help with the decision-making process, in the event that the individual is unable to communicate or make decisions in relation to their health. It ensures that an individual’s
- [Celebrating Int Women's Day](https://bch.org.au/celebrating-int-womens-day/) - A HEALING PRESENCE – CELEBRATING A NURSING HISTORY FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY This International Women’s Day, Bellarine Community Health celebrates 86 year old Verna McLennan, whose decades of dedication to nursing helped build the health infrastructure that the Portarlington and Bellarine communities rely on today. When Verna McLennan first arrived in Portarlington, there were no
- [Diversity and Inclusion Action](https://bch.org.au/diversity-and-inclusion-action/) - To coincide with Harmony Week, the BCH Diversity & Inclusion Action Group (DIAG) has launched a colourful new visual ‘WELCOME’ sign and diversity statement to be displayed across all our sites. The idea behind the sign was to create a welcoming environment in our waiting rooms, representing our commitment to deliver health and wellbeing outcomes
- [World Heart Day](https://bch.org.au/world-heart-day-2/) - Heart disease remains the world’s number one killer. In the last decade alone, deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD) have nearly doubled. Up to 80% of premature CVD deaths are preventable through affordable access to care, early screening and more opportunities to make healthy choices in nutrition and stay active. Each year, September 29 marks World
- [Community Health First Impact Report](https://bch.org.au/community-health-first-impact-report/) - Bellarine Community Health is proud to have participated in the launch of the Community Health First Impact Report at Parliament House this week. Health Minister The Hon. Mary-Anne Thomas MP officially launched the report and spoke about the impact of community health within Victoria. A panel of clients, service providers and frontline workers, shared lived
- [Farm My School Pilot Project Report](https://bch.org.au/farm-my-school-pilot-project-report/) - Farm My School (FMS), Bellarine Community Health (BCH), and Bellarine Secondary College (BSC) came together through local connections, good timing and shared values around health, education, community and environment. In 2021, FMS and BCH made the first connection. FMS shared their big, bold idea: What if schools could feed their communities? What if we used
- [Get Active Kids Vouchers Available](https://bch.org.au/get-active-kids-vouchers-available/) - The Get Active Kids Voucher Program is open again! Do you have a Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card? Does your child play a sport or recreation activity? Then you might be eligible for a $200 voucher or $200 money back! The ‘Get Active Kids Voucher Program’ helps families get their kids involved in sport and
- [Occupational Therapy Week](https://bch.org.au/occupational-therapy-week/) - Celebrating Occupational Therapy Week at BCH This week, the Occupational Therapy (OT) teams across Bellarine Community Health are celebrating Occupational Therapy Week – a time to recognise the vital role OTs play in supporting health and wellbeing across our community. Supporting the Bellarine Community Across the Lifespan Did you know that BCH has Occupational Therapists
- [Kids Active Travel Program](https://bch.org.au/kids-active-travel-program/) - Students from four local primary schools are walking, riding, scooting and rolling their way into a healthier school routine, thanks to the Kids Active Travel Program 2023–2025. Called Walk, Ride, Scoot and Roll Geelong, the program aimed to increase opportunities for children to safely walk, ride and scoot to school – building confidence, independence and
- [Health and wellbeing at any age](https://bch.org.au/health-and-wellbeing-at-any-age/) - What better way to celebrate turning 100 than balloons, cupcakes and an exercise session. That’s exactly how Point Lonsdale resident Carmen Ward marked her milestone birthday late last month at Bellarine Community Health's Mobility Plus program. Mrs Ward has been attending Bellarine Community Health's weekly Mobility Plus Exercise program for the past four years, a
- [16 Days of Activism](https://bch.org.au/16-days-of-activism/) - The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign was started by activists at the inauguration of the Women's Global Leadership Institute in 1991. Three decades on, 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a widely recognised global campaign that encourages action to end gender-based violence. During this time, organisations and individuals from around the world raise awareness that men’s violence against
- [Tips for healthy festive eating](https://bch.org.au/tips-for-healthy-festive-eating/) - Enjoy eating this festive season The festive season is upon us—a time for celebration, connection, and yes, delicious food. But somewhere between the parties, family gatherings, and endless platters of treats, it's easy to feel like healthy eating has left the building entirely. Maybe you've caught yourself thinking, "I'll just start fresh in January," or
- [Have Your Say in our Community Voices Survey](https://bch.org.au/have-your-say-in-our-community-voices-survey/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is currently in the process of building its next Strategic Plan. The strategy will set the vision and priorities for the organisation for the next five years. We want to ensure that we are listening to our community and that our Strategic Plan reflects community priorities. Community feedback allows us to
- [Invest in infrastructure for Community Health](https://bch.org.au/invest-in-infrastructure-for-community-health/) - INFRASTRUCTURE VICTORIA REPORT HIGHLIGHTS THE NEED FOR INVESTMENT IN COMMUNITY HEALTH Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has welcomed the findings of the Infrastructure Victoria Report which has called for an urgent increase in infrastructure funding to ensure community health organisations can meet growing demand. Despite providing services to 1 in 10 Victorians, registered community health organisations
- [Investing in community health infrastructure](https://bch.org.au/investing-in-community-health-infrastructure/) - MEDIA RELEASE FROM COMMUNITY HEALTH FIRST Community Health First is calling for an urgent increase in infrastructure funding to ensure Victoria’s community health organisations can meet growing demand across the state. Despite providing services to 1 in 10 Victorians, registered community health receives just 0.3 per cent of the Victorian Government’s $2 billion annual health
- [50 years of community support](https://bch.org.au/50-years-of-community-support/) - The Portarlington Ladies Auxiliary is celebrating a remarkable milestone – 50 years of unwavering community service and fundraising support for Bellarine Community Health (BCH). The story started on April 29, 1974, when a public meeting was held in Portarlington to establish a community health centre. The following year the Ladies Auxiliary was formed with a
- [Aged Care Employee Day](https://bch.org.au/aged-care-employee-day/) - Celebrating Our Aged Care Heroes: Aged Care Employee Day August 7 2025 Today, we pause to celebrate something truly special at Bellarine Community Health – our incredible aged care employees and volunteers who dedicate their hearts and expertise to supporting our older community members every single day. You might be surprised to learn just how
- [Community Nurse retires after 50 years of caring](https://bch.org.au/community-nurse-retires-after-50-years-of-caring/) - After an extraordinary 50-year nursing career dedicated to caring for others, Barb Wiltshire is hanging up her uniform as she retires from her role as a Community Nurse with Bellarine Community Health (BCH). At 68, Barb has touched countless lives throughout her remarkable journey in healthcare, spending her final 15 years with BCH. Her retirement
- [Parents and Caregivers Support Program](https://bch.org.au/parents-and-caregivers-support-program/) - Are you looking for support to understand your child’s emotional world? By learning to read the emotional needs of your child you can: Support your child’s ability to successfully manage emotions Enhance the development of your child's self esteem Honor your innate wisdom and desire for your child to be secure Our latest 8-week program to
- [Dietitians Week - Your Health, Our Mission, Talk to a Dietitian](https://bch.org.au/dietitians-week-your-health-our-mission-talk-to-a-dietitian/) - Dietitians Week from June 16 - 22 celebrates the essential role that Accredited Practising Dietitians play in enhancing people’s health and improving lives across Australia. This national initiative shines a spotlight on the profound impact dietitians have – not only in guiding individuals toward better nutrition, but in shaping healthier communities and advancing public well-being.
- [BCH Palliative Care Week](https://bch.org.au/bch-palliative-care-week/) - Every day in Australia, hundreds of people of all ages die from a terminal illness. Palliative care is about enriching the final months, weeks and days of someone’s life. This week is Palliative Care Week and Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is challenging the community to begin a conversation about death, to think about their future
- [BCH staff take on MS challenge](https://bch.org.au/bch-staff-take-on-ms-challenge/) - The May 50K event is a challenge to walk or run 50 kilometres throughout the month of May to raise funds for life-changing research into multiple sclerosis (MS). For staff at Bellarine Community Health (BCH), it’s become a very personal challenge after a colleague recently revealed she was suffering from the disease. In 2024, 47-year-old
- [Getting kids active on their way to school](https://bch.org.au/getting-kids-active-on-their-way-to-school/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is currently delivering the Walk, Ride, Scoot, Roll (WRSR) program in partnership with the City of Greater Geelong (CoGG) and the Portarlington, Leopold and St Leonards Primary schools. Funded via the Victorian Government’s Kids Active Travel Program, WRSR works with schools to encourage more students and their families to actively travel
- [Ageing Well Hub](https://bch.org.au/ageing-well-hub/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is expanding support services to assist older community members navigate the aged care system. BCH established a volunteer-run hub in Portarlington last year to try to help people over the aged of 65 connect with My Aged Care. Many people accessing the service have come from the Drysdale/Clifton Springs area, so
- [Official Opening Child Youth Hub](https://bch.org.au/official-opening-child-youth-hub/) - Bellarine Community Health’s (BCH) new Child, Youth and Family Hub has been officially opened in the Kingston Estate in Ocean Grove. More than 50 people attended the official proceedings, including Member for Corangamite Libby Coker MP who unveiled a plaque acknowledging the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care funding for the building under the
- [New Child Youth Hub Open](https://bch.org.au/new-child-youth-hub-open/) - A new Child, Youth and Family Hub providing modern facilities to support families on the Bellarine is now open in the Kingston Estate in Ocean Grove. The Child, Youth and Family Hub has been built to support the health, development and wellbeing of local children and young people. The hub features light open spaces including
- [2024 Annual General Meeting](https://bch.org.au/2024-annual-general-meeting/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) held its Annual General Meeting last week with BCH members presented with the Annual Report, Financial Statements, and highlights of the year. Despite no increase in funding, and increasing demand for affordable services and rising costs, BCH has managed to report a small surplus for the 2023 -2024 financial year. The
- [Community Health First Budget Submission](https://bch.org.au/community-health-first-budget-submission/) - Community Health First unites all 24 registered independent community health services in Victoria, including Bellarine Community Health, with one shared goal – improving the health, wellbeing and quality of life of all Victorians. Community Health First’s has been advocating for stronger investment in the Community Health sector and has now released its 2025 Victorian Budget
- [Farm My School Kicks Goals](https://bch.org.au/farm-my-school-kicks-goals/) - It’s been a big few weeks for the Farm My School team and members from our BCH Healthy Communities team who support them. The farm gates were thrown open at Bellarine Secondary College for a community party to celebrate two years since the farm was built. Ambassador Costa Georgiadis helped the team cut the birthday
- [This Girl Can Week 2024](https://bch.org.au/this-girl-can-week-2024/) - Together we are unstoppable We all want women and girls to move their bodies how and when suits them best. Balancing family, work, and home can make it tough to find time to be active. That’s why we, at Bellarine Community Health, support all women and girls in finding a way to move that fits
- [Toy grant supports play therapy](https://bch.org.au/toy-grant-supports-play-therapy/) - GRANT FOR TOYS SUPPORTS PLAY THERAPY FOR CHILDREN Play is important for all of us, no matter how young or old. It’s a space where we can connect with ourselves, with others, experience delight and joy or just reset. For children, play can also be a learning space where they develop an understanding of relationships
- [Active Kids Voucher Available](https://bch.org.au/active-kids-voucher-available/) - The Victorian Government’s Get Active Kids Voucher Program is open again! Do you have a Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card? Does your child play a sport or recreation activity? Then you might be eligible for a $200 voucher or reimbursement! The ‘Get Active Kids Voucher Program’ helps eligible families get their kids involved in organised sport
- [Community Health Impact Report Launched](https://bch.org.au/community-health-impact-report-launched/) - Community health reaches over 608,000 Victorians amid growing demand and clients want to see more government investment Community Health First, the initiative of Victoria’s 24 registered independent community health services, has just launched the 2023-24 Impact Report on the state of the sector, including a Client Sentiment Survey showing Victorian’s views and experiences of these essential
- [Farm My School Birthday](https://bch.org.au/farm-my-school-birthday/) - Farm My School (FMS) is throwing open the farm gates for a community party to celebrate its second birthday. The festive, family-friendly celebration will feature music performances from Bellarine Secondary College (BSC) students, a student photographic display, tree planting in the FMS orchard, food vans and other fun activities. “We’re excited to invite the community
- [Grant delivers energy savings](https://bch.org.au/grant-delivers-energy-savings/) - Bellarine Community Health’s (BCH) push to reduce its carbon footprint has received a boost thanks to a grant which aims to assist local organisations cut energy costs. BCH has received almost $15 thousand from the Federal Government’s Energy Efficiency Grant program to install block out blinds at two of its key locations. The buildings at
- [BCH appoints new CEO](https://bch.org.au/bch-appoints-new-ceo/) - The Board of Directors of Bellarine Community Health (BCH) are pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Kathy Russell to the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Ms Russell has been Acting CEO for the past few months while an extensive recruitment process has been undertaken. Ms Russell’s appointment is for a three-year
- [BCH calls for school meals program](https://bch.org.au/bch-calls-for-school-meals-program/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has called on the Victorian Government to support a state-wide school meal program to reduce food insecurity in Victoria. The call has been made in a submission by BCH’s Healthy and Connected Communities team to the Parliamentary Inquiry into food security in the state. The inquiry is considering the impacts, drivers
- [Walk Ride Scoot Roll to School](https://bch.org.au/walk-ride-scoot-roll-to-school/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is thrilled to be partnering with the City of Greater Geelong (COGG) and Active Geelong on the new project, Walk Ride Scoot Roll Geelong, within primary schools on the Bellarine Peninsula. The project will support students to actively travel to and from school and aims to give students and families the
- [New Vaping Laws from July 1](https://bch.org.au/new-vaping-laws-from-july-1/) - New legislation has been passed to end the retail supply of vapes. From 1 July 2024, vaping products will only be available from pharmacies. The vapes will be subject to quality and product standards (e.g. plain packaging, maximum nicotine concentration levels, limited to mint/menthol and tobacco flavours). The vaping reforms are not as stringent as originally intended – adults
- [Ocean Grove Health Hub Update](https://bch.org.au/ocean-grove-health-hub-update/) - BCH Ocean Grove Health and Wellbeing Hub Update Construction of the Ocean Grove Health and Wellbeing Hub is well underway. The builder is on track to complete the works in mid-to-late September. To date the steel work and framing installation is complete, bricklaying is underway, and roofing has been installed. Both the plumbing and electrical
- [Connecting Young and Old](https://bch.org.au/connecting-young-and-old/) - As Woody from Toy Story says to his fellow toys, ‘you’ve got a friend in me’, and that’s what young people and older clients with Bellarine Community Health are now saying to each other following the successful expansion of an intergenerational program on the Bellarine. The program, which connects school age children with older adults
- [headspace Push-Up Challenge](https://bch.org.au/headspace-push-up-challenge/) - Across the Bellarine people are pushing up for youth mental health as part of ‘The Push-Up Challenge’ – Australia’s largest mental health and fitness event. The challenge sees participants take on 3,249 push-ups across 24 days in June, raising awareness of mental health and funds for organisations like headspace Ocean Grove. One local group to
- [Escape the Vape for World No Tobacco Day](https://bch.org.au/escape-the-vape-for-world-no-tobacco-day/) - World No Tobacco Day is on the 31st of May each year. This year, the World Health Organisation is focusing on the theme of ‘young people speaking out about the tobacco industry’. Here you can find out more about their work to amplify the voices of young people for their campaign this year. Locally, we
- [Bellarine Wellbeing Connect Launch](https://bch.org.au/bellarine-wellbeing-connect-launch/) - A group of community minded organisations and service providers have joined together in a bid to create connections that support the health and wellbeing of people on the Bellarine. Bellarine Wellbeing Connect, an alliance of diverse, community focussed organisations will be officially launched this month at an event at Parks Hall in Portarlington. The event
- [Palliative Care Week](https://bch.org.au/palliative-care-week-2/) - This week we celebrate National Palliative Care Week (NPCW). It marks the nation’s largest annual initiative aimed at deepening people’s understanding of palliative care and encouraging action around end-of-life planning. Bellarine Community Health is one of many service providers experiencing a growing demand for palliative care support and in particular, support for people who want
- [Community Health First Budget Response](https://bch.org.au/community-health-first-budget-response/) - MORE INVESTMENT NEEDED IN COMMUNITY HEALTH TO KEEP VICTORIANS OUT OF HOSPITAL Community Health First welcomes an additional investment of $11 billion in our healthcare system over the next four years and acknowledges that the Community Health program funding has not been cut. However, most of the new investment – over $8 billion - will
- [What are the new vaping reforms in 2024?](https://bch.org.au/what-are-the-new-vaping-reforms-in-2024/) - At the end of 2023, the Federal Government announced new vaping reforms to commence on 1 January 2024 and 1 March 2024. Quit Victoria has released a summary of the new vaping restrictions that will come into effect this year, read more about this below: From 1 January 2024: A ban on the importation of
- [Donation helps dental clients](https://bch.org.au/donation-helps-dental-clients/) - Bellarine Community Health’s unique personalised dental service for people with autism and mild intellectual disabilities has been given a boost thanks to a generous donation from dental instrument supply company Single Use. Single Use supply sterile, disposable dental instruments, clinical consumables, and oral surgery procedure packs. The company has gifted BCH Dental with a supply
- [Have Your Say](https://bch.org.au/have-your-say/) - Bellarine Community Health is taking part in the 2024 Victorian Healthcare Experience Survey (VHES). By participating in the survey, it helps BCH understand your experience and how we can continue to improve the quality and safety of our programs and services. If you attended an appointment at one of our sites or through telehealth in
- [ETU Official Opening](https://bch.org.au/etu-official-opening/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) recently joined with affordable housing provider Sirovilla to celebrate the official opening of the refurbished Sirovilla Eric Tolliday Units in Point Lonsdale. More than 60 people, including Neil Tolliday, son of Eric Tolliday, current residents and their families, Board Directors of both BCH and Sirovilla, Local Member Alison Marchant and Borough
- [BCH CEO Steps Down](https://bch.org.au/bch-ceo-steps-down/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Garry Ellis has today announced he will step away from his role with the organisation to pursue other interests. Mr Ellis took over as CEO in 2020 and has played a key role in delivering a turnaround strategy for BCH over the past three and a half
- [Disaster Relief Programs](https://bch.org.au/disaster-relief-programs/) - MEDIA STATEMENT FROM ALLIANCE OF RURAL AND REGIONAL COMMUNITY HEALTH Victoria’s disaster response could be radically overhauled with a push for a new permanent Community Recovery and Resilience program in disaster-prone regions. The Alliance of Rural and Regional Community Health (ARRCH) has developed a model to establish a permanent trauma-informed workforce in Community Health across
- [Builder appointed Ocean Grove Hub](https://bch.org.au/builder-appointed-ocean-grove-hub/) - A new Bellarine Community Health (BCH) ‘Health and Wellbeing Hub’ in Ocean Grove is a step closer with the appointment of a builder for the project. Loaram Constructions has been appointed to undertake stage one of the project with work already underway and expected to be completed by the end of August this year. “We A new Bellarine Community Health (BCH) ‘Health and Wellbeing Hub’ in Ocean Grove is a step closer with the appointment of a builder for the project. Loaram Constructions has been appointed to undertake stage one of the project with work already underway and expected to be completed by the end of August this year. “We
- [Back to school support](https://bch.org.au/back-to-school-support/) - Returning to school may be stressful for some young people. Young people can feel a range of emotions when they're heading back to school from excitement and anticipation to nerves or even fear. New and noticeable changes in your young person's behaviour may indicate they need some support. Tanya Fitzgerald, headspace Ocean Grove Manager and
- [Reducing tobacco related harm](https://bch.org.au/reducing-tobacco-related-harm/) - BCH CEO Garry Ellis, along with other health leaders across Victoria, are actively supporting the campaign to reduce tobacco-related harm. Below is his reflection on the importance of Bellarine Community Health and other health services working in this space. While Australia has been proactive in reducing tobacco use, it remains one of the leading causes
- [2023 Annual Report](https://bch.org.au/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
- [50 years of community health celebrations](https://bch.org.au/50-years-of-community-health-celebrations/) - Last week our CEO Garry Ellis joined with other Community Health organisations leaders to celebrate 50 years of community health at Government House in Melbourne. Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria, hosted members of the Victorian Healthcare Association, including BCH, and sector stakeholders to acknowledge and commemorate 50 years since the Community Health
- [BCH celebrates 12 months of 'Active OUR Way'](https://bch.org.au/bch-celebrates-anniversary-of-active-our-way/) - We are pleased to share that Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has celebrated the first anniversary of their local, student led program 'Active OUR Way'. The ‘Active OUR Way’ program is a partnership project with St Leonards, Leopold and Portarlington Primary Schools. The BCH Healthy and Connected Communities team (HCCT) heard from more than 430 students
- [Intergenerational Pilot Program](https://bch.org.au/intergenerational-pilot-program/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has launched a new Intergenerational Pilot Program to bring together children and senior members of the community. Called 'You've Got a Friend in Me', the pilot is a collaboration between the BCH Social Support Program and Point Lonsdale Primary School. The aim is to bring the children and the Social Support
- [Climate Action Recognition](https://bch.org.au/climate-action-recognition/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has been recognised for its commitment to Climate and Health Action through the Workplace Achievement Program. The Achievement Program is an evidence-based health and wellbeing framework that helps workplaces and schools create a healthier environment. The program is supported by the Victorian government and delivered by Cancer Council of Victoria. BCH
- [Get Active Kids Voucher Program](https://bch.org.au/get-active-kids-voucher-program/) - The Victorian Government’s Get Active Kids Voucher Program is currently open again! Do you have a Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card? Does your child play a sport or recreation activity? Then you might be eligible for a $200 voucher or reimbursement! The ‘Get Active Kids Program’ helps eligible families get their kids involved in organised sport
- [A Carers Story - Celebrating Carers Week](https://bch.org.au/a-carers-story-celebrating-carers-week/) - It’s like the long slow goodbye – that’s how Margaret O’Meara from Clifton Springs describes caring for her husband. 76-year-old Michael O’Meara (Mike) was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in April 2021 and Margaret is his primary carer. This week is National Carers Week and it’s aimed at recognising and celebrating people like Margaret, who is one
- [Ocean Grove Land Donation](https://bch.org.au/ocean-grove-land-donation/) - A family-owned development company has donated a large area of land in the Kingston Estate Development in Ocean Grove for the establishment of a health and wellbeing hub. Kingston Ocean Grove owned by the Corless family has generously gifted Bellarine Community Health (BCH) a parcel of land in Goodwell Drive. The transfer of the just
- [Community Health Conference](https://bch.org.au/community-health-conference/) - Bellarine Community Health is proud to have participated in the inaugural conference for the Alliance of Rural and Regional Community Health (ARRCH) held recently in Creswick. More than 240 delegates attended the conference, with keynote speakers including the Minister for Health, Mary-Anne Thomas and Secretary for the Department of Health Euan Wallace along with several
- [Bank Backs Farm My School](https://bch.org.au/bank-backs-farm-my-school/) - Bendigo Community Bank Bellarine has today announced a $150,000 dollar grant to support the innovative Farm My School project on the Bellarine. Farm My School began as a collaboration between Bellarine Secondary College (BSC), Bellarine Community Health (BCH) and the founders of Farm My School Inc. (FMS) James McLennan and Ben Shaw. The vision for
- [This Girl Can Week - Get walking on the Bellarine!](https://bch.org.au/get-walking-on-the-bellarine/) - Bellarine Community Health are proud to again support VicHealth’s This Girl Can VIC Week. This Girl Can Week runs from 9-15 October. We support girls and women to get active in ways that suit them whatever their age, background, or ability. Ground yourself with a nature walk: Walking in nature is a simple way to
- [Active OUR Way - Bringing student designs to life!](https://bch.org.au/active-our-way-bringing-student-designs-to-life/) - BCH’s Healthy and Connected Communities team heard from more than 430 Primary School students in late 2022 as part of our local ‘Active OUR Way’ program. During a three-month design process, we heard from students from St Leonards Primary School, Leopold Primary School and Portarlington Primary School. 127 students attended face-to-face design workshops ran by
- [Geelong Community Foundation Grant](https://bch.org.au/geelong-community-foundation-grant/) - In celebration of Speech Pathology Week, BCH would like to acknowledge the Geelong Community Foundation in supporting the establishment of a Senior Paediatric Speech Pathologist role which has strengthened the service we can provide to our clients on the Bellarine. Community health plays the crucial role of filling gaps left by the broader health system
- [Partnership gets kids moving](https://bch.org.au/partnership-gets-kids-moving/) - Leisure Networks is having fun bringing its very own Mini Movers program to children in Portarlington and St Leonards, thanks to a great partnership with Bellarine Community Health (BCH). “Bellarine Community Health’s, Healthy and Connected Communities Team (HCCT) are thrilled to be partnering with Leisure Networks to bring the Mini Movers program to children on
- [BCH achieves accreditation](https://bch.org.au/bch-achieves-accreditation/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is pleased to report that it has achieved full accreditation under new National Safety and Quality Primary and Community Healthcare Standards. Accreditation is independent recognition that an organisation meets the requirements of defined criteria or standards, and BCH has been one of the first organisations to be audited under these standards
- [Speech Pathology Week](https://bch.org.au/speech-pathology-week-2/) - Speech Pathology Week from August 20 - 26 promotes the speech pathology profession and the work done by speech pathologists. Did you know that 1 in 7 Australian's will have a communication difficulty at some stage in their life? Communication is a basic human right and Speech Pathology Week helps to raise awareness of communication disability and
- [Community Health First](https://bch.org.au/community-health-first/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has today joined all 24 registered community health services and government and sector leaders to officially launch the Community Health First position paper Strengthening Victoria’s Health System through Community Health. The paper, developed collaboratively by all registered community health services, was launched with a powerful central message focused on the need
- [Eric Tolliday Units to reopen under new partnership with Sirovilla](https://bch.org.au/eric-tolliday-units-to-reopen-under-new-partnership-with-sirovilla/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) and retirement village provider Sirovilla have today announced a new partnership to reopen the Eric Tolliday Units (ETUs) located on the BCH site in Point Lonsdale. Sirovilla is an established and trusted provider with retirement villages in both Geelong and Anglesea. The organisation plans to renovate and reopen the vacant Eric
- [World Heart Day](https://bch.org.au/world-heart-day/) - Today is World Heart Day. This years theme is USE HEART TO CONNECT. It's about using your knowledge, compassion and influence to make sure you, your loved ones and the communities you’re part of have the best chance to live heart-healthy lives. It’s about connecting with our own hearts, making sure we’re fuelling and nurturing
- [Builder appointed for BCH redevelopment at Portarlington](https://bch.org.au/builder-appointed-for-bch-redevelopment-at-portarlington/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has welcomed in the New Year with the recent signing of a building contract for the redevelopment of the Portarlington Community Health Centre. After a competitive tender process, Loaram Constructions has been appointed to undertake the redevelopment works at the Portarlington site. “It’s pleasing to see this project finally get underway,”
- [Frequently asked questions about Covid-19 vaccines for children aged 5 - 11 years](https://bch.org.au/can-breakfast-help-keep-us-thin-nutrition-science-is-tricky/) - Frequently asked questions Current as of 28 December 2021 General information about vaccination for 5-11 year-old children Can children aged 5-11 get vaccinated? Yes. Australia’s medical regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), has approved the use of the Pfizer vaccine for children aged 5-11 years. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) also recommends
- [Rapid Antigen Test - Video demonstrations](https://bch.org.au/rising-cost-of-diabetes-care-concerns-patients-and-doctors/) - The team at Barwon Health have produced a great video to help make sure you are doing your Rapid Antigen Test correctly.
- [BCH staff shave heads to support families with blood cancer](https://bch.org.au/many-doctors-use-wrong-test-to-diagnose-kids-food-allergies/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) staff are well known for going above and beyond to look after the health and safety of our community, but two staff members are taking it to another level. Alexandra Mrak and Kathleen Mangan are taking a stand against blood cancer by taking the ‘bald’ step to shave their hair as

## Pages

- [Home](https://bch.org.au/) - BCH is the major provider of primary health services to the Bellarine Peninsula. We operate from five health centres in Drysdale (two sites), Ocean Grove, Point Lonsdale and Portarlington. Any person of any age can access our health services however eligibility criteria apply to some services and income-dependent fees may apply.
- [Board of Directors](https://bch.org.au/about/board-of-directors/) - Call for Expressions of Interest - Board Director Positions Bellarine Community Health Ltd is seeking Expressions of Interest from professional, experienced and committed individuals to join its Board of Directors. There will be up to 3 positions available from November 2026. As a member of the Board, you will contribute to the strategic direction, governance,
- [Adult, Child & NDIS Referral](https://bch.org.au/contact/self-referral/) - You can make a self-referral to Bellarine Community Health. To ensure we process your referral appropriately, please fill in as much information as you can, and our administration team will get back to you as soon as possible. For youth referrals please click here. If your referral is urgent, please call us on 1800 007
- [Dental Costs](https://bch.org.au/dental/dental-costs/) - Public Dental Procedures Cost Emergency Care Flat fee of $32.00 per course of care General Care Fee of $32.00 per visit per course of care, to a maximum of $128.00 per course of care Denture Care $77.50 per denture, capped at $155.00 for a full upper and lower denture Children 0-12 years enrolled at Government
- [Privacy](https://bch.org.au/about/privacy/) - Accessing Information held by BCH An individual person has the right to access information from their own Medical Record by either obtaining copies or viewing their own Medical Record. A person can obtain information from a deceased patient’s Medical Record if they were named next of kin at the time of admission, executor of the
- [Donate](https://bch.org.au/donate/) - Ways to Give Bellarine Community Health is an independent, not-for-profit, non-government organisation which has been working to service the health needs of the local community for more than 50 years. Community health ensures people can access healthcare close to home so they can remain in, and engage with, their local community. There are many ways
- [Youth Referral](https://bch.org.au/contact/youth-referral/) - If you are looking for NDIS referral, please click here. If you’re looking for the Adult Self-Referral form, please click here. Otherwise, please proceed with the youth referral form below.
- [Inclusive Dental](https://bch.org.au/dental/inclusive-dental/) - Service Overview We offer clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Intellectual Disability a personalised dental service. This award winning service is available to anyone with an ASD diagnosis or Intellectual Disability. There are no age or location restriction. Contact the team on (03) 5258 0828 to discuss. To make an appointment, phone 5258 0828OR
- [Child & Youth Dental](https://bch.org.au/dental/child-youth-dental/) - Service Overview Children and youth are able to access treatment through the public dental program. All children under 13 years of age no charge – FREE Young people, aged 13 – 17 years who hold or are dependants of a valid concession card, health care card or Pensioner Concession Card – FREE OR Eligible for
- [Private Dental](https://bch.org.au/dental/private-dental/) - Service Overview At Bellarine Community Health we believe that everyone deserves quality dental care! We offer a low-cost Private Dental Service with no waiting period. This service is available to everyone, whether you are a new patient or a current patient of the public clinic. Jane, is our private dentist, with many years of experience,
- [Public Dental](https://bch.org.au/dental/public-dental/) - Service Overview Proudly supporting our community’s oral health needs Bellarine Community Health Dental Clinic offers both a GENERAL and EMERGENCY dental service that is government funded. Low-cost fees apply; (see the Dental fee Tab). There are 2 pathways for Public Dental Care. GENERAL CARE Examinations Fillings Radiographs Extractions Root Canals Treatments Cleaning Professional and dietary
- [Eat Well At Home](https://bch.org.au/eat-well-at-home/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is here to support your health and wellbeing as we move through these uncertain times together. Eating well keeps us healthy. There are many reasons people find it hard to eat well and many ways to make it easier. One way you can look after yourself and feel good when spending more time
- [Our Approach](https://bch.org.au/live-well/our-approach/) - Live Well Bellarine - Our Approach Live Well Bellarine (also referred to as Our plan) is the Healthy Communities team’s (HCT) Action Plan. The HCT are a team of highly skilled Health Planners who live locally. We are committed to improving health and wellbeing outcomes for the Bellarine. Our plan is based on best practice
- [Little Growers](https://bch.org.au/live-well/eat-well/little-growers/) - We are proud to be piloting Little Growers Story Time in the Garden on the Bellarine, in collaboration with Geelong Regional Libraries, from late 2022 to mid 2023. Little Growers is a nature-based learning experience for preschool aged children, who explore growing in the garden through story, song and by getting their hands dirty! We
- [Youth Guerrilla Garden](https://bch.org.au/live-well/eat-well/youth-guerrilla-garden/) - The Youth Guerrilla Garden was established in 2021 behind headspace Ocean Grove. The Youth Guerrilla Garden is the first dedicated youth community garden on the Bellarine Peninsula. The Garden was established through seed funding from VicHealth and supported through DFFH Engage 2022-25 funding. From July 2023, The BCH Youth Health and Wellbeing team, who operate
- [Active OUR Way - Student Champions!](https://bch.org.au/active-our-way-student-champions/) - We are thrilled to be working with St Leonards Primary School who have recruited 14 ‘Active OUR Way Student Champions’ from grades 3-6. This is a new and exciting student leadership group which acts as a steering group for the Active OUR Way project. AOW Student Champions have been busy working away behind the scenes during
- [Active OUR Way - Community Actions](https://bch.org.au/active-our-way-community-actions/) - The Healthy and Connected Communities Team (HCCT), were very busy in 2023, working with our three communities to bring their activities to life! Here are a few BIG actions which we have now delivered! Snorkel and Water Safety Program We are thrilled to have worked with the Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre and Scubabo Dive
- [Active OUR Way - The Results are in!](https://bch.org.au/active-our-way-the-results-are-in/) - We asked 430 Primary School students which activities ‘they wanted to try and do more often’. Students were asked to vote for their top 5 activities. The results were interesting with 45 – 65% of students choosing ‘recreation activities’ such as swimming, snorkeling, bike riding and skateboarding. More ‘sporty activities’ were selected by 20-35% of
- [Youth Climate Leadership Program](https://bch.org.au/live-well/eat-well/bellarine-youth-leadership-program/) - Coming Soon! Youth Climate Leadership Program We are currently supporting the City of Greater Geelong Youth Development Unit to develop a Youth Climate Leadership Program. This Geelong-wide program will invite Bellarine young people to get involved, step up and take climate action in their community. We are very excited to be co-designing this program with
- [Farm My School](https://bch.org.au/live-well/eat-well/farm-my-school/) - We are proud to be partnering with Farm My School Ltd and Bellarine Secondary College to pilot the first ever Farm My School program. Farm My School has created a 1.5-acre commercial permaculture market garden and outdoor classroom at Bellarine Secondary College in Drysdale, Victoria. The innovative program will connect young people and their families
- [Fundraise](https://bch.org.au/fundraise/) - Fundraising is an extremely rewarding experience for all involved, as well as helping the local community Fundraising is one of the best ways to make a difference to residents of all ages on the Bellarine. There are many ways to raise money to support the families on the Bellarine including participating in a sports event
- [Play Therapy](https://bch.org.au/services/play-therapy/) - Play Therapy We’re here to improve children’s mental health and wellbeing. Our Play Therapist provides psychological support to children who are experiencing a range of social, emotional and behavioural difficulties. We work with children aged from 0 to 12 years and their caregivers. Play Therapy Children and families are referred to our play therapy service
- [COVID-19](https://bch.org.au/covid-19/) - Staying COVID-19 Safe Bellarine Community Health is taking steps to keep staff and clients well. COVID-19 Requirements As we continue to live with COVID-19, there are important steps we can all take to help reduce the spread of the virus and protect ourselves and those who are most at risk. The risk of catching or
- [Strategic Plan](https://bch.org.au/strategic-plan/) - The BCH Strategic Plan is our roadmap for the future. Our guiding principles are at front of mind in all decision making and operational processes. They relate to how we see ourselves and how we will work with all those with whom we come in contact. These are our guiding principles. We strive to become
- [Test Page](https://bch.org.au/dental/test-page/) - I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
- [Strategic Plan](https://bch.org.au/about/other-publications/) - The BCH Strategic Plan is our roadmap for the future. Our Mission Statement acknowledges that BCH services multiple communities with differing needs. There are five values and behaviours that underpin our actions in order to achieve our strategic goals. Community First A positive and inclusive environment Excellence Leadership Integrity Download a copy of the 2022 –
- [Dental Outreach](https://bch.org.au/dental/dental-outreach/) - We come to schools on the Bellarine Our Oral Health Professionals support Primary schools and childcare centers across the Bellarine providing FREE dental screenings. To check if your school or childcare center in involved in this program please contact the Dental Clinic on 5258 0828. Consent forms for Participating schools for the free dental screening are available, click here and
- [Dental Feedback Form](https://bch.org.au/dental/dental-feedback-form/)
- [Dental Online Registration Form](https://bch.org.au/dental/dental-online-registration-form/)
- [Health Promotion](https://bch.org.au/community/health-promotion/) - MENUMENUActive Travel MENUMENUActive Womens & Girls MENUMENUViolence Against Women MENUMENUHealthier Eating MENUMENUHealth Places Achievement Program
- [Kristina Dimasi](https://bch.org.au/about/board-of-directors/kristina-dimasi/) - Kristina has served on the board of BCH since 2012. In that time, she has seen many changes and challenges. She is proud of how BCH has adapted and grown in providing a wide range of health services to the community. Kristina also sits on BCH’s Finance and Audit Committee. She has a strong passion
- [Support at Home](https://bch.org.au/support-at-home/) - The new Support at Home Program From November 1 2025 the Australian Government is introducing Support at Home to replace existing home support systems to create a simpler, fairer and flexible approach to care for older Australians. Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is a registered provider under Support at Home, and we deliver in-home support to
- [About](https://bch.org.au/about/) - Welcome to Bellarine Community HealthBellarine Community Health Ltd (BCH) is the major provider of primary health services to the Bellarine Peninsula. BCH operates from six locations across the Bellarine. There are two sites in Drysdale including a youth specific site in the school’s district, two sites in Ocean Grove including the Child, Youth and Family
- [Resources](https://bch.org.au/sector-support-development/resources/) - CHSP Resources - Operational Dignity of Risk Framework for community aged care providers This framework was developed by the National Sector Support and Development Dignity of Risk working group including representatives from: Adelaide Hills Council, Bellarine Community Health, City of Onkaparinga, Eastern Sector Development Team, Ethnic Community Services Co-operative, iLA Australia and West Gippsland Healthcare Group. In
- [Latest News](https://bch.org.au/sector-support-development/latest-news/) - Latest News
- [Events](https://bch.org.au/blog/events/) - Dying to Know Day – Let’s bust some myths about dying Join us for a free information session about ways to live your best (finite) life. You will hear from someone with lived experience of Palliative Care and hear from our dedicated Palliative Care team. There will also be fun activities like flower arranging and
- [Speech Pathology](https://bch.org.au/speech-pathology/) - We're here to help improve communication Our Speech Pathologists support children and young people to develop their communication skills and/or feeding. Our team works with children aged 0 to 6 years before starting at school, including NDIS Early Childhood Approach. For children who will be commencing school in 2027 referrals for Community Health Speech Pathology
- [National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)](https://bch.org.au/national-disability-insurance-scheme-ndis/) - Bellarine Community Health is a registered NDIS provider and is dedicated to providing professional, responsive and person-centred NDIS services. What we can provide: Therapy services are available within our Children’s Services, Youth Services, Adult Health Services and Community Nursing. The early childhood approach for children 0 – 9 years If your child is younger than
- [Government Subsidised services](https://bch.org.au/government-subsidised-services/) - Government Subsidised services As a Community Health Service, Bellarine Community Health is funded by the State and Commonwealth Governments to deliver allied health, nursing and other services to meet the communities health needs. Home and Community Care (HACC) Services for younger people (people aged under 65 and Aboriginal people aged under 50). Provides services to
- [Bellarine Wellbeing Connect](https://bch.org.au/bwc/) - Bellarine Wellbeing Connect Bellarine Wellbeing Connect (BWC) is a group of community-minded organisations and service providers who have joined together with the collective goal of supporting the health and wellbeing of people on the Bellarine. The formation of Bellarine Wellbeing Connect has resulted in partnerships and networking to bring about meaningful connections to help communities
- [General Meetings](https://bch.org.au/about/board-of-directors/bch-general-meetings/) - BCH General Meetings Key Documents Bellarine Community Health Constitution May 2026 Draft Minutes BCH Special General Meeting May 2026 Explanation of Recommendations – BCH Constitution BCH Strategic Plan on a page 2026 – 2030 Confirmed Minutes of the 2024 AGM 2024 – 2025 Financial Report 2024 – 2025 BCH Annual Report Draft Minutes of the
- [Our Constitution](https://bch.org.au/about/our-constitution/) - Bellarine Community Health is a Company Limited by Guarantee and has its own constitution. BCH Constitution BCH Financial Membership Application Form
- [Service Brochures](https://bch.org.au/about/service-information-brochures/) - Programs and Services Brochure Client Rights and Responsibilities Brochure Clients Rights and Responsibilities Aged Care Act Protecting Your Health Information BCH Advocacy and Registered Supporter Support at Home Palliative Care Brochure Community Nursing Brochure Podiatry and Foot Care Brochure Physiotherapy Brochure Occupational Therapy Brochure Social Support Brochure Nutrition and Dietetics Dental Services Brochure Child Health
- [Training & Events Calendar](https://bch.org.au/sector-support-development/training-events-calendar/) - Dignity of Risk Framework and Decision-Making Tools Wednesday 27 May 2026, 10.00AM-12.00PM Tuesday 2 June 2026, 1.00PM-3.00PM Introduction Dignity of Risk is a key element in modern aged care, as outlined in the Aged Care Act 2024 and the Strengthened Quality Standards. However, providers often find it challenging to apply this concept consistently in practice.
- [Children's Groups](https://bch.org.au/childrens-groups/) - Children's Therapy Groups Bellarine Community Health runs children’s therapy groups at various times throughout the year. These groups are led by trained health professionals and broadly look to develop social skills, confidence, teamwork and connection. A group environment enhances the opportunities to practise and develop skills with similar aged or level peers. Current group programs
- [Tim Walsh](https://bch.org.au/about/board-of-directors/tim-walsh/) - Tim Walsh has 40 years’ experience as CEO in the Community Health/Primary Care sector. Services managed include North Richmond, East Preston, St Albans and Casey/Cardinia Community Health and South East Metro Alcohol and Drug services, Mental Health and Responsible Gambling Services. Board/Industry experience includes: Member of the Ministerial Review of Community Health in the 1980’s Board positions within Health Industry peak bodies – VHA and VAADA Current Chair of YCW
- [Quality and Safety](https://bch.org.au/about/quality-and-safety/) - Quality & Safety Bellarine Community Health has a quality and safety framework which provides a comprehensive overview of the organisation’s clinical, community and corporate governance. Our quality and safety systems are managed with clear lines of accountability, and we strive to achieve continuous improvement in our performance and service delivery. We listen to the voices
- [Contact](https://bch.org.au/contact/) - Contact Us Phone: 1800 007 224 Option 1 – Home Care Packages Option 2 – Allied Health Services Option 3 – Dental Option 4 – Youth Services Option 5 – Community Nursing Option 6 – Child Services Option 7 – General Enquiries Fax: (03) 5258 0864 PLEASE NOTE: BCH sites are closed on Public Holidays In an
- [Referrals](https://bch.org.au/referrals/) - Youth Referral For all referrals for young people aged 12-25, please use the youth referral button above. Email: youth@bch.org.au Fax referral: 52515099 Phone: (03) 5253 0400. Adult, Child & NDIS Referrals Use this referral form for all other referrals. For more information, or assistance email intake@bch.org.au or call 1800 007 224.
- [Sector Support & Development](https://bch.org.au/sector-support-development/) - Sector Support & Development This site has been developed by the Regional Advisor Sector Support and Development for members of the Barwon CHSP HACC PYP Alliance and Commonwealth Home Support (CHSP) service providers across Australia. The Regional Advisor works with funded agencies to support change management, the sharing of good practice and encourage inclusive access
- [Our History](https://bch.org.au/our-history/) - The Bellarine Community Health Story Bellarine Community Health is steeped in history. The story began in 1948 with fundraising in the hope of establishing a District Hospital for the Peninsula. But Government policy changed over the years, and the fundraising committee could not secure a hospital. The focus changed and in 1969, the Hospitals and Charities
- [Feedback](https://bch.org.au/contact/feedback/) - Have your say on your experience with services at Bellarine Community Health Bellarine Community Health aims to provide the best possible care to our clients. Thank you for taking the time to let us know what our service did well or what we might be able to improve on. Your feedback is welcomed and helps
- [Financial Reports](https://bch.org.au/financial-reports/) - The Audited Financial Accounts are presented at the Annual General Meeting in November each year. Once they are formally adopted they will be loaded onto this site. Financial Report 2024 – 2025 Financial Report 2023 – 2024 Financial Report 2022 – 2023 Financial Report 2021 – 2022 Financial Report 2020 – 2021 Financial Report 2019 –
- [Eat Well](https://bch.org.au/live-well/eat-well/) - Eating well helps keep us healthy and happy. There are many reasons why it can be hard to eat well and many ways we can work together to try to make it easier. We are working with others in our community on projects that will make it easier for children, young people and their families to: Eat more
- [General Publications](https://bch.org.au/about/general-publications/) - Please click on the document name to open: Organisational Structure Employment Application Form
- [Annual Reports](https://bch.org.au/annual-reports/) - The Annual Report is a summary of key organisational achievements for each financial year. Financials are detailed in a separate, independently audited Financial Report for each financial year. 2024 -2025 Annual Report 2023-2024 Annual Report 2022-2023 Annual Report 2021-22 Annual Report 2020-21 Annual Report 2019-20 Annual Report 2018-19 Annual Report and Quality Account Report 2017-18 Annual Report
- [Aged Care Reforms](https://bch.org.au/sector-support-development/aged-care-reforms/) - For up-to-date information relating to Aged Care Reforms visit: CLICK HERE to access Aged Care Reforms Department of Health, Disability and Ageing ‍We recommend you subscribe to the Aged Care Sector newsletters and alerts which can be found at the above link.
- [Continence Clinic](https://bch.org.au/continence-clinic/) - Continence Clinic - Service Overview This service assists you to manage bladder and bowel problems such as frequency, urgency, retention, constipation and mild pelvic organ prolapse. PLEASE NOTE – CONTINENCE SERVICES ARE TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE Our understanding and caring community nurses have specialised skills in incontinence issues and can link you to other support services including
- [Children's Services](https://bch.org.au/childrens-services/) - We deliver high quality services to children and families most in need, to positively impact their future. Our passionate and experienced therapists deliver services to children with a variety of needs. We work in partnership with the child and their family using child and family centred principles and an early childhood early intervention approach. The
- [Mental Health & Wellbeing](https://bch.org.au/counselling/) - Let us work with you today Our qualified and experienced counsellors, both male and female, pride themselves on their confidential and caring service Adult Counselling Providing short to medium term counselling for adults (aged over 25 years). Working in partnership with you the counsellor will help you to identify your goals and match the therapy
- [Dietetics](https://bch.org.au/dietetics/) - Start making a difference today with food Dietitians support people to understand their nutritional needs and work with them to maintain their health through all stages of life. Dietitians take into consideration any medical conditions and can tailor advice that is practical for each individual and their lifestyle. Nutrition & Dietetics Our qualified dietitians can
- [Community Transport](https://bch.org.au/transport/) - Transport for the community Bellarine Community Health’s Community Transport Program is a government funded program that is designed to provide accessible and affordable transport service to people who may have difficulty accessing conventional transport. This program support eligible clients to attend; BCH Social Support groups BCH group exercise sessions Trips to a local shopping centre
- [Occupational Therapy](https://bch.org.au/occupational-therapy/) - We are ready to starting helping you today Our Occupational Therapists work together with clients to develop goal-directed care to support them to maximise their independence, safety and quality of life at home and in the community. Occupational Therapists look at activities that are meaningful to the client including taking care of oneself (and others),
- [Physiotherapy](https://bch.org.au/physiotherapy/) - Lets get you back to what you love Physiotherapists provide expertise in functional and musculoskeletal problems, pain, balance and mobility. Physiotherapy Physiotherapy is an effective form of treatment for a wide range of injuries and conditions such as: back and neck pain, sports injuries, post-surgery rehabilitation and overuse injuries. Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has a
- [Dental](https://bch.org.au/dental/) - Welcome to Bellarine Community Health Dental services Bellarine Community Health Dental Service provides general and emergency dental care for all ​ Providing care to both public and private patients at an affordable cost​ Our Dental Service is based at our Point Lonsdale site in a modern state of the art facility.​ A professional, caring and
- [Exercise Groups](https://bch.org.au/exercise-groups/) - Exercise is an important part of maintaining or improving your health and wellbeing. Bellarine Community Health offers a range of physical activity options for adults at locations across the Bellarine. Exercise Groups Access to the exercise groups is based an initial assessment to determine the most suitable group for your abilities and individual goals. Individual
- [Cardiac Rehabilitation](https://bch.org.au/groups/cardiac-rehabilitation/) - We are ready to starting helping you today The Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is an eight week program to assist people who have suffered a heart attack, stents or heart surgery. Cardiac Rehabilitation The weekly education, exercise and support program is for clients after an acute cardiac episode and is developed on the Heart Foundation guidelines.
- [Podiatry](https://bch.org.au/podiatry/) - Let us help you get your feet sorted Podiatrists provide comprehensive foot care, diagnosing, treating and preventing foot, ankle and lower limb problems. Our Podiatrists can help children, youth and older adults. How can we help Podiatrists can assist with: Simple nail care Diabetes related foot concerns and education Ankle and foot pain or injury
- [Exercise Physiology](https://bch.org.au/exercise-physiolgy/) - Lets get a management plan setup for you! Exercise physiologists analyse clients’ physical function to help aid their physical and/or mental health or maintain good health. They can also help clients manage diabetes, osteoarthritis, asthma, osteoporosis, depression, anxiety, heart disease and other chronic conditions to optimise health and function. Exercise Physiology Our exercise physiology team
- [Child Safety Commitment](https://bch.org.au/child-safety-commitment/) - Child Safe Commitment Bellarine Community Health is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people. Every child and young person have the right to live a full and productive life in an environment that builds confidence, friendship, security, and happiness, irrespective of their family circumstances and background. Children and young people have
- [Code of Conduct](https://bch.org.au/code-of-conduct/) - BCH Code of Conduct The Bellarine Community Health (BCH) Code of Conduct is key to supporting our organisation’s guiding principles and provides our employees with a framework to continually improve in all that we do. At BCH we strive for excellence at all times and the Code of Conduct reminds our staff of their obligations
- [Positions Available](https://bch.org.au/positions-available/) - Come work with us on the Bellarine! Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is the major provider of primary health care services to the Bellarine Peninsula, 30 minutes from Geelong. The area is renowned for its beaches, coastal villages and relaxed lifestyle. We are committed to providing quality, accessible and affordable health services most needed by our local community
- [Youth Nursing](https://bch.org.au/youth-nursing/) - Youth Community Nursing & General Practice Youth Community Nursing and GP services at BCH aim to support young people in making a safe and healthy transition to adulthood. Our team of GPs and Nurses provide comprehensive, patient-centred care and act as a bridge between patients and specialised medical services, all the while considering the unique
- [Volunteers](https://bch.org.au/volunteers/) - Volunteering is a priceless way to give back Bellarine Community Health’s Volunteers play an integral role in the continued support provided across the Bellarine. They work across all areas of the organisation from strategic governance through to daily interaction with people who use our services. Many of Bellarine Community Health’s programs and work areas are
- [Wellness and Reablement](https://bch.org.au/sector-support-development/wellness-and-reablement/) - What is Wellness and Reablement Wellness is a philosophy that focuses on the strengths, abilities, and goals of individuals to encourage actions to promote a level of independence in activities of everyday living. Wellness informs a way of working with individuals receiving support from aged and community care organisations. Like Wellness, Reablement aims to assist
- [Groups](https://bch.org.au/groups/) - MENUMENUCardiac Rehabilitation MENUMENUCommunity Transport MENUMENUExercise Groups MENUMENUSocial Support Groups
- [Ocean Grove Health & Wellbeing Hub](https://bch.org.au/ocean-grove-health-wellbeing-hub/) - Child, Youth & Family Hub Stage one of Bellarine Community Health’s (BCH) exciting new Child, Youth and Family Hub in the Kingston Estate in Ocean Grove is now complete. This exciting new hub, designed by Four18 Architecture and built by Loaram Constructions, is providing modern facilities to support families on the Bellarine. The Child, Youth
- [Virginia Todd](https://bch.org.au/about/board-of-directors/john-lesser/) - BCH welcomes Virginia Todd to the Board. Virginia is a resident in Queenscliff, and recently retired. She has served for nine years as board director for Barwon Health and chaired the Primary Care and Population Health Committee for six years. Viriginia brings significant expertise in professional strategic planning, policy development and governance to BCH, skills
- [Live Well Bellarine](https://bch.org.au/live-well/) - Live Well Bellarine - Our Health Promotion Plan Bellarine Community Health is excited to be sharing ‘Live Well Bellarine’ as part of our Health Promotion Plan (2021-25). Our health promotion work aims to keep our community healthy and well and prevent people from getting sick in the first place. Our key focus areas are eat
- [Foodie Fridays Youth Cooking Workshops](https://bch.org.au/foodie-fridays/) - Foodie Fridays invites Bellarine young people to learn how to make delicious nourishing food as part of a series of Friday night Youth Cooking Workshops held at Bellarine Training and Community Hub. The veggie-focused recipes use seasonal produce from the Farm My School market garden at Bellarine Secondary College. Workshops are facilitated by local chef
- [General Practice](https://bch.org.au/gp-clinic/) - General Practice Services - Portarlington Bellarine Community Health is now partnering with Epichealth to deliver a private medical practice from the BCH site in Portarlington. Epichealth is a community-minded GP provider and is focused on maintaining and growing high quality GP services for people in the Bellarine Peninsula and now the Portarlington area. Your current
- [Smoking and Vaping](https://bch.org.au/live-well/smoking-and-vaping/) - Live Well Bellarine - Smoke and Vape free Living smoke and vape free helps us breathe clean air and keeps everyone healthy. We work with childcare, kindergartens, primary and secondary schools across the Bellarine Peninsula to help make them healthier places for our children and young people. We help make these places smoke and vape
- [Regional Smoking & Vaping Resources](https://bch.org.au/rect-network/) - Smoking and Vaping Support Resources The Regional E-Cigarette and Tobacco Working Group is a partnership between the following organisations. Click on the logos below to find out more about each partner. The Regional E-Cigarette and Tobacco (RECT) Working Group works across multiple Local Government Areas across the Barwon South West Region. We are made up
- [NDIS Referral](https://bch.org.au/contact/ndis-referral/) - You can make an NDIS referral to Bellarine Community Health. To ensure we process your referral appropriately, please fill in as much information as you can and our administration team will get back to you as soon as possible. For youth referrals please click here. If your referral is urgent please call us on 1800
- [Health & Wellbeing Resources](https://bch.org.au/live-well/health-wellbeing-resources/) - Health & Wellbeing Resources We have gathered some free resources to support the health & wellbeing of our community. Eat Well at Home online hub Eating well is more important now than ever. We have brought together some useful resources and links to support families on the Bellarine to eat well at home. The online hub includes
- [Portarlington Redevelopment](https://bch.org.au/portarlington-redevelopment/) - Portarlington Redevelopment BCH received $2 million in Commonwealth funding following the 2019 Federal election. These funds were assigned to upgrade an ageing wing of the Portarlington Community Health Centre. The redevelopment of this Community Health facility is now complete, and the building was officially opened by Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Ged Kearney
- [Services](https://bch.org.au/services/) - Are you looking for Telehealth?Click here to get connected MENUMENUAllied Health DieteticsOccupational TherapyPhysiotherapyPodiatrySpeech PathologyMental Health & WellbeingExercise Physiology MENUMENUNational Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) MENUMENUDental MENUMENUChild Youth Family Services Children’s ServicesYouth Servicesheadspace Ocean GroveDoctors in Secondary Schools MENUMENUGroups Cardiac RehabilitationCommunity TransportExercise GroupsSocial Support GroupsMeals on Wheels MENUMENUSupport at Home MENUMENUPalliative Care MENUMENUNursing Adult NursingContinence ClinicYouth Nursing
- [Be Active](https://bch.org.au/live-well/be-active/) - ‘Be active’ is one of the focus areas of Live Well Bellarine. Our goal for ‘Be active’ is to get more children, young people (aged 0-18 years) and their families across the Bellarine Peninsula moving more! We are doing this through our local ‘Active OUR Way’ project. This project involves working directly with our community
- [headspace Ocean Grove](https://bch.org.au/child-youth-family-services/headspace-ocean-grove/) - We are supporting young people and their families. headspace Ocean Grove is operated by Bellarine Community Health. All headspace services are funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. Administration of funding is carried out by the headspace centre’s local Primary Health Network, in this case, Western Victoria PHN. headspace Ocean Grove headspace Ocean
- [Doctors in Secondary Schools](https://bch.org.au/child-youth-family-services/doctors-in-secondary-schools/) - Giving students access to free, safe, quality health services at school. We’re helping ensure students at a secondary schools can access primary health care services from GPs and Nurses thanks to the Victorian Government’s GPs in Secondary Schools program. This program enables us to reach vulnerable young people who are unable to access general practice medicine
- [Child Youth Family Services](https://bch.org.au/child-youth-family-services/) - Helping our young people thrive Bellarine Community Health provides a quality family-centred experience for children and young people requiring services with a focus on early intervention, comprehensive assessment and referral pathways, and a tailored approach to support and services. The Child Health and Development team provide expert paediatric services to children and young people under
- [Aged Care Services - Consumer Advisory Body](https://bch.org.au/aged-care-services-consumer-advisory-body/) - Join Our Aged Care Services Consumer Advisory Body Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is inviting consumers of our aged care services and their representatives to join our Consumer Advisory Bodies (CAB). The CABs will look at the quality of care and services you and others receive. You will have an opportunity to contribute to BCH strategies
- [Active OUR Way - The DESIGN Process!](https://bch.org.au/active-our-way-the-design-process/) - A key first step of this project was our ‘design process!’. Over three months in 2022, we met with each of our three Active OUR Way communities to discuss and plan their design process. In total, we heard from: Over 120 students who participated in face-to-face design workshops. Over 380 students completed an AOW Student
- [Youth Services](https://bch.org.au/youth-services/) - Our team are highly skilled adolescent health care specialists The adolescent developmental phase between 12-25 is one of self-discovery, independence building and rapid emotional growth. It can be a difficult time for both the young person and their family unit. The BCH youth team recognise this and offer a range of physical health, social health,
- [BCH Vaping Resources](https://bch.org.au/bch-vaping-resources/)
- [Private Health Insurance](https://bch.org.au/private-health-insurance/) - Bellarine community health provides services to clients who have private health insurance.​ Bellarine Community health offers HICAPS claiming facilities to ensure your private health insurance pays for your service instantly, leaving you only paying the gap specified by your private health insurance provider.​ ​Reach out to our intake team on (03) 5258 0812 or email: intake@bch.org.au
- [Bequests](https://bch.org.au/bequests/) - Bequests Leaving a gift to Bellarine Community Health in your Will is one of the greatest impacts you can have on your local community to create a lasting difference. There is comfort in knowing that your legacy will live on and that you will be supporting countless families in all stages of their lives. From
- [Eric Tolliday Units](https://bch.org.au/eric-toliday-units/) - Sirovilla Eric Tolliday Units Bellarine Community Health (BCH) and retirement village provider Sirovilla have formed a partnership which has resulted in the refurbishment and reopening of the Eric Tolliday Units (ETUs) located on the BCH site in Point Lonsdale. Sirovilla is an established and trusted provider with retirement villages in both Geelong and Anglesea. The 16-unit
- [Social Support Groups](https://bch.org.au/groups/social-support-groups/) - Social Support Keeping socially, physically and mentally active is vital to our overall health ​and is also an important part of staying well as you age but sometimes it can be hard to know where to start. Bellarine Community Health​ Social Support Program supports people to connect to their community, live independently in their home
- [Make a Payment Online](https://bch.org.au/make-a-payment-online/) - Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.If you have to make payment for a BCH service, simply fill out the form below, with your payment details and click submit. If you have any issues please contact Finance on 1800 007 224 or AccountsReceivable@bch.org.au First Name *Last Name *Email *PhoneNotes to BCHPlease choose
- [Become a Member](https://bch.org.au/become-a-memeber/) - People living or working in the area serviced by Bellarine Community Health can apply to become a financial member. Members should have an interest in supporting the aims and services of Bellarine Community Health and be willing to understand the complexities of providing health services to meet a broad suite of community needs. Financial member
- [Student Placement](https://bch.org.au/student-placement/) - We're helping the next generation Bellarine Community Health supports tertiary students through clinical placements. Limited clinical placements are offered in the following fields: Allied Health Assistant Community Health Nursing Community Nursing including Palliative Care Counselling (some limitations apply) Dietetics Health Promotion – Primary Prevention Occupational Therapy Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Therapy How to Apply To apply
- [Strategy 2022-2025](https://bch.org.au/community-participation/strategy-2022-2025/) - Your voice matters In May 2022 we launched the BCH 2022-2025 Strategic Plan. The new Strategic Plan sets out the goals and priorities for BCH for the next few years and guides financial sustainability and potential growth for the organisation. This Strategic Plan will guide the organisation and the services it provides over the next
- [Adult Nursing](https://bch.org.au/adult-nursing/) - Adult Nursing - Service Overview The Community Nursing and Support Program provides high standard nursing care to people in their own homes and other community settings, enabling them to maintain quality of life. Skilled clinicians, including registered nurses, occupational therapists and case managers, provide care and family support. They work closely with your medical practitioner,
- [Palliative Care](https://bch.org.au/palliative-care/) - Palliative Care - Service Overview Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of clients (adults and children) and their families facing the problems associated with a life-threatening illness. Palliative care assists the prevention and relief of suffering by means of early identification, correct assessment and treatment of pain and other problems,
- [Test Page](https://bch.org.au/services/test-page/) - Test
- [Nursing Menu](https://bch.org.au/services/nursing-menu/) - test
- [Telehealth](https://bch.org.au/telehealth/) - Here for your Telehealth? Click below to get started! Please note: The use of this video service will consume data. Where possible, please consider switching to Wi-Fi in order to minimise mobile data usage – and avoid excess usage mobile data charges. More clinics will be made available for telehealth shortly. Thank you for your
- [Dental Outreach Form](https://bch.org.au/dental-out-reach-form/) - Bellarine Community Health (BCH) Oral Health Therapists support schools across the Bellarine providing FREE dental screenings. To participate in the free dental screening, please complete the below form. Alternatively, you can bring your children under the age of 13 years to the BCH Dental Clinic in Point Lonsdale for general dental care. Contact the team
- [Meals on Wheels](https://bch.org.au/meals-on-wheels/) - Meal delivery to the Bellarine The Bellarine Community Health Meals on Wheels program delivers nutritious meals to residents who are unable to provide for their personal dietary needs and as we know that good nutrition plays a key part in overall health and wellbeing. Meals on Wheels has become more than “just a meal”, it also provides
- [Jobs](https://bch.org.au/job-openings/)
- [Lucy Simms](https://bch.org.au/about/board-of-directors/lucy-simms/) - BCH welcomes Lucy Simms to the Board. Lucy is a Bellarine Peninsula resident who grew up in Point Lonsdale. She has returned to the region having moved to Melbourne to progress her career. She has held senior roles advising the private, not-for-profit and Government sectors. This has involved engaging directly with Board members across a
- [Families Eating Well](https://bch.org.au/community/health-promotion/healthier-eating/eat-well/families-eating-well/) - Why is it important to Eat Well! There are lots of reasons why it can be hard for families to eat well at home, and many things which make it easier. Over 2018-19 we asked families who live on the Bellarine Peninsula what makes it hard and what makes it easier to eat vegetables and
- [Pantry Items](https://bch.org.au/community/health-promotion/healthier-eating/eat-well/pantry-items/) - Using Pantry items to Eat Well Pantry items can be used to help you and your family eat well at home. Download the below checklist from the Australian Healthy Food Guide, to stock up your pantry with healthy essentials, and use the meal starter ideas to whip up some quick and tasty meals based on
- [Budget to Eat Well](https://bch.org.au/community/health-promotion/healthier-eating/eat-well/budget-to-eat-well/) - A little planning can make a difference With a little planning and some useful tips, buying and preparing good food on a budget is not as hard as it may seem. See our Planning and Shopping to Eat Well page here. Below you will find some additional tips to stick to a budget to eat well. There are
- [Planning Shopping](https://bch.org.au/community/health-promotion/healthier-eating/eat-well/planning-shopping/) - Plan & Shop to Eat Well As we still find ourselves at home more, we may find we are eating more. Some of us are preparing three meals a day at home. Planning to eat well is more important now than ever. There are many benefits of meal planning, such as less trips to the
- [Support your family to Eat Well](https://bch.org.au/community/health-promotion/healthier-eating/eat-well/support-to-eat-well/) - Support your family to Eat Well Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of clients (adults and children) and their families facing the problems associated with a life-threatening illness. Palliative care assists the prevention and relief of suffering by means of early identification, correct assessment and treatment of pain and other
- [Eating for Wellness](https://bch.org.au/community/health-promotion/healthier-eating/eat-well/eating-for-wellness/) - Good Healthy foods make you feel good By eating well you can help your immune system to function at its best. See the resources below to learn more about how you can help keep your body well by eating well. Additonal Information If you would like further support to help your family eat well, or to find out about our other projects, contact the Healthy Communities
- [Eat Well](https://bch.org.au/community/health-promotion/healthier-eating/eat-well/)
- [Choose Water](https://bch.org.au/community/health-promotion/healthier-eating/choose-water/)
- [Mark Harris](https://bch.org.au/about/board-of-directors/mark-harris/) - BCH welcomes Mark Harris to the Board. Mark has lived in Ocean Grove for the last 22 years. As a local clinician and Health Manager in Geelong, he has worked hard to develop health services in the region during this time. He is at the forefront of the Healthcare Industry in the region as Director
- [Jean Paul](https://bch.org.au/about/board-of-directors/jean-paul/) - Jean Paul’s career has been focused on the Human Resource management and People Development sectors. Initially with Quiksilver as Human Resource Manager Asia Pacific, a highlight for Jean was being awarded the Victorian Government’s Employer of the year for Training and Development. Jean then joined the Committee for Geelong, a lobby and strategy group for Geelong, as the Program Director – Leadership Programs, first developing and then implementing
- [Rod Slattery](https://bch.org.au/about/board-of-directors/rod-slattery/) - Rod Slattery has had over 30 years’ experience working in a professional environment, with PPB Advisory (17 years) and PwC (18 years), including two years in London. His areas of specialist expertise are Restructuring and turnaround advice, Strategic advice and Transaction services. Qualifications: Bachelor of Business Chartered Accountant Graduate member of the Institute of Company Directors Member of the Chartered
- [Fay Agterhuis](https://bch.org.au/about/board-of-directors/fay-agterhuis/) - Fay Agterhuis (Chair) has lived on the Bellarine with her family for over 20 years and during that time has worked closely with many community and service organisations. She is currently the Principal of Point Lonsdale Primary School and has a strong connection to families and younger people across the broader Bellarine communities. Fay’s previous roles in rural communities focussed on education and meeting the
- [Submit Job](https://bch.org.au/submit-job/) - [submit_job_form]
- [News](https://bch.org.au/blog/) - 03/08/2026 0 COMMENTS National EoE Awareness WeekThis week (August 6–12) marks National EoE Awareness Week, a campaign aimed at raising awareness of eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases (EGIDs), including eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) – a little-known but potentially debilitating condition affecting swallowing… Read more TEAM BCH News 29/07/2026 1 COMMENT BCH Nurse raising funds for Cancer researchA BELLARINE
- [Community](https://bch.org.au/community/)
- [Community Participation](https://bch.org.au/community-participation/)
- [Strategic Planning](https://bch.org.au/strategic-planning/)
- [CH](https://bch.org.au/ch/)
- [HACC](https://bch.org.au/hacc/)
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- [Terms & Conditions](https://bch.org.au/terms/) - Community Rules & Etiquette and Privacy Guidelines Thank you for being part of our community. To ensure the best possible experience for all members, we have established some basic guidelines for participation. By joining and using this community, you agree that you have read and will follow these rules and guidelines. You also agree to
- [Appointment](https://bch.org.au/appointment/) - Welcome to medicenter Donec sed odio dui. Nulla vitae elit libero, a pharetra augue. Nullam id dolor id nibh ultricies vehicula ut id elit. Integer posuere erat a ante venenatis dapibus posuere velit aliquet. Duis mollis, est non commodo luctus, nisi erat porttitor. Our MottoThe mind has great influence over the body and maladies often
- [Page Not Found](https://bch.org.au/404-page-template/) - 404. The page you requested was not found. We’re sorry, but we can’t seem to find the page you requested. This might be because you have typed the web address incorrectly. BACK TO HOME

## Job Openings

- [Oral Health Services Manager](https://bch.org.au/jobs/oral-health-services-manager/) - We are seeking an Oral Health Services Manager to join Bellarine Community Health and guide our dental service through growth, innovation and community impact.

## Sidebars

- [Sidebar Opening Hours](https://bch.org.au/medicenter_sidebars/sidebar-opening-hours/)
- [Sidebar Home Right Style 3](https://bch.org.au/medicenter_sidebars/sidebar-home-right-style-3/)
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- [Sidebar Blog](https://bch.org.au/medicenter_sidebars/sidebar-blog/)
- [Sidebar Home Right Style 2](https://bch.org.au/medicenter_sidebars/sidebar-home-right-style-2/)
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## Categories

- [Dental Clinic](https://bch.org.au/category/dental-clinic/)
- [General](https://bch.org.au/category/general/)
- [Health](https://bch.org.au/category/health/)
- [News](https://bch.org.au/category/news/)
- [COVID](https://bch.org.au/category/covid/)
- [GP Clinic](https://bch.org.au/category/gp-clinic/)
- [Capital Works](https://bch.org.au/category/capital-works/)
- [Mental Health](https://bch.org.au/category/mental-health/)
- [Social Support](https://bch.org.au/category/social-support/)
- [Environment](https://bch.org.au/category/environment/)
- [Healthy and Connected Communities](https://bch.org.au/category/healthy-and-connected-communities/)
- [Nursing](https://bch.org.au/category/nursing/)
- [Youth](https://bch.org.au/category/youth/)

## Tags

- [HEALTH](https://bch.org.au/tag/health/)
- [Worlds Greatest Shave](https://bch.org.au/tag/worlds-greatest-shave/)
- [COVID](https://bch.org.au/tag/covid/)

## Job Category

- [Dental](https://bch.org.au/job-category/dental/)

## Job Type

- [Full Time](https://bch.org.au/job-type/full-time/)

## Job Location

- [Point Lonsdale](https://bch.org.au/job-location/point-lonsdale/)