Bendigo COVID-19 vaccine: Let’s have a chat about those myths you have been hearing about
There’s so many myths doing the rounds about the COVID-19 vaccine.
Everything from the vaccine will give you COVID-19 to the vaccine will … wait for it …. connect you to the internet!
So our Health Promotion team has made a series of videos to set the record straight.
PLEASE … do your research about the vaccine and don’t listen to conspiracy theories or the advice of ‘someone’ who heard ‘something’ from ‘someone’.
For the latest information on AstraZeneca vaccine and the risks click here
For the latest reliable information use the Department of Health website click here
Where to get your COVID-19 vaccine in Bendigo
Bendigo Community Health Services is delivering COVID-19 vaccines to people aged 60 and over and the 1B category. To book the next available appointment call 5406 1200.
Please note we are not the Bendigo Community Clinic offering priority access for aged care residents, carers and staff. This is Bendigo Health. Details below.
If you are aged under 60, want the vaccine immediately or are only eligible for the Pfizer vaccine we recommend you use the Bendigo Health Vaccination Hub at 113-133 Mollison Street. The hub is open from 10am to 5pm daily. Call 1800 675 398 to make an appointment. The hub accepts limited walk-in appointments each day.
To watch Belle and Kahla discuss the first COVID-19 myth, please click on the ‘read more’ button below.
Victorian COVID-19 lockdown: What this means for Bendigo Community Health Services
Victoria will enter a seven-day lockdown from midnight.
What does this mean for Bendigo Community Health Services?
As an essential service we will continue to operate our Eaglehawk, Central and Kangaroo Flat sites.
All our sites are run under strict COVID-19 protocols so they are as safe as we can possibly make them.
We ask for you help in allowing us to keep a safe environment by when you visit one of our sites wearing a mask, sanitising your hands, scanning the QR code when you arrive and do the screening questions with one of our Client Services staff. This all takes a bit of time we know so we ask for patience and support when dealing with our staff.
Please call us on 5406 1200 if you would like to cancel an appointment or change to Telehealth and we will see if this can be done.
Not all appointments can be done by Telehealth as some require assessment or procedure.
With Active Living group sessions and other activities our staff will contact you soon to talk about arrangements.
We are offering COVID-19 vaccinations for people aged 40 to 59 or frontline workers and eligible community groups. To book an appointment call 5406 1200 or visit our online booking system to see available appointments click here
Please stay tuned for further updates.
If you have any concerns please call 5406 1200 and our friendly client services staff will help you out.
We are taking a huge amount of calls at the moment and there might be a little wait so again we ask for your patience and support!
Last updated: July 15, 2021
Get Moving For Healthy Ageing – free exercise classes for people aged 60 plus
We love this Get Moving For Healthy Ageing program being run through May and June by the Bendigo and Kangaroo Flat libraries.
The program features free exercise classes for people aged 60 plus with motto of Seniors, Let’s Move encouraging people to try something new and get moving.
Among the activities you can try are Tai Chi, hula hooping, gentle yoga and silver top dance therapy.
That sure sounds like fun! Here’s all you need to know about the free classes, times and venues click here
Did you know we run a host of programs designed to keep seniors healthy, well and living independently.
To learn more about our Active Living Program and how we can help you click here
Last updated: May 2021
Bendigo nurses enjoy flowers and ‘thank yous’ on International Nurses Day
It’s International Nurses Day.
A time to say thank you to not only our wonderful nurses but all those across the world who dedicate their lives to caring for others.
Where would we be without them!
Nurses play such an important role at BCHS in our bulk-billed medical practices at Eaglehawk, Central and Kangaroo Flat and caring for people through vital services such as our Women’s Health Clinic, Men’s Health Clinic, Sexual Health Clinic, Refugee Settlement programs, workplace health, flu clinics, COVID vaccine clinics, Alcohol and Other Drugs support programs and our Nova House facility.
Such vital work that makes a huge difference to those in need in our community.
To celebrate International Nurses Day our Health Promotion team asked a few of our nurses why they chose this career, what inspires them and what advice they would offer anyone thinking of following in their footsteps.
To watch the video and see more pictures from our International Nurses Day appreciation please click on the ‘read more’ button below.
Golden Square Kinder uses free Achievement Program to improve health and wellbeing
Huge congratulations to Golden Square Kindergarten for some fantastic work in finishing the Achievement Program and improving the health and wellbeing of children, families and staff.
Our Achievement Program co-ordinator Siobhan has been so impressed by the effort everyone put in to make change especially in the areas of emotional ladder, movement obstacle courses and oral health.
Siobhan visited the centre to congratulate director Carol and all the staff.
Well done Golden Square!
If your early learning centre, kinder or school would like to follow the Golden Square lead give Siobhan a shout by email SiobhanSullivan@bchs.com.au or call 5406 1253.
Time to make a difference!
RELATED INFORMATION
Bendigo early learning childhood services celebrate proud achievements in improving health and wellbeing through free Achievement Program click here
Achievement Program champions: Health a top priority for GoodStart Kangaroo Flat click here
Bendigo Family Day Care team earns State Government recognition for Achievement Program click here
Bendigo Achievement Program delivers a free path to health changes for Bendigo early learning centres, schools and businesses click here
Last updated: May 2021
Kylie Jacka: The close long lasting relationships and bonds that develop with the families
And that’s a wrap for National Family Day Care Australia Week.
We have loved celebrating the unique and valuable contribution the Family Day Care sector makes for families, children and the community.
The theme for this year is ‘Every Child Is A Star’ and there are more than 107,000 children in Family Day Care across Australia.
Our Bendigo Family Day Care team put together this series to celebrate the diversity, knowledge, passion and dedication all FDC educators provide in City of Greater Bendigo and Loddon Shire.
We are lucky to have FDC educators that have been with us for over 30 years and some only three weeks.
We thank each and every one of our educators, both past and present!
So today let’s bring our week of celebrations to an end by meeting ….
Kylie Jacka
Kylie is a passionate educator dedicated to the Early Childhood sector and to the wellbeing of children.
She enjoys mentoring other educators and working closely with the team.
With a strong value of natural open-ended play and a ‘Can Do’ attitude, Kylie brings some fun to the Strathdale community.
We asked Kylie to reflect on her time with Bendigo FDC:
How long of you been working for Bendigo FDC?
I relocated to Bendigo and joined BFDC in 2009 had a couple of years in a centre but returned as I preferred the smaller intimate setting and groups.
Why did you choose to start an FDC service?
Wendy Whelan: It’s the perfect work-life balance for me and I’ve made lasting friendships
It’s National Family Day Care Australia Week.
A time to celebrate the unique and valuable contribution the family day care sector makes for families, children and the community.
The theme for this year is ‘Every Child Is A Star’ and there are more than 107,000 children in Family Day Care across Australia.
Our Bendigo Family Day Care team wants to celebrate the diversity, knowledge, passion and dedication the FDC educators provide in City of Greater Bendigo and Loddon Shire.
We are lucky to have FDC educators that have been with us for over 30 years and some only three weeks.
To recognise National Family Day Care Week we’d love to introduce you to some of our amazing educators.
We thank each and every one of our educators, both past and present!
Today, let’s meet …..
Wendy Whelan
Wendy as been with the Bendigo FDC family for 21 years!
Wendy would hate us saying that … LOL.
However, we have been lucky enough to enjoy and not only share the growth of her three children whilst they were in care, but we saw Wendy grow into a confident educator who motivates others and is always there for her peers and families since she applied to be an educator herself.
I think most of Wendy’s families and children would agree when we say that Wendy is always there to help others and is such a hoot to hang out with, the children adore her and her family.
We asked Wendy to reflect on her time with Bendigo FDC:
How long of you been working for Bendigo FDC?
I registered as an educator with Bendigo FDC for six and a half years, however, it took me 12 years to finally get there!
I’d apply and something would hinder my progress so I’d withdraw, then I’d apply again and nearly started and found out I was pregnant.
Once when I was on my way for the information session, I broke my ribs on my way to the meeting.
Ahhh… I eventually got there and am so pleased I persisted and pushed those obstacles aside.
Why did you choose to start an FDC service?
Anneque Beveridge: The most rewarding thing is the bond I have with the children
It’s National Family Day Care Australia Week.
A time to celebrate the unique and valuable contribution the family day care sector makes for families, children and the community.
The theme for this year is ‘Every Child Is A Star’ and there are more than 107,000 children in Family Day Care across Australia.
Our Bendigo Family Day Care team wants to celebrate the diversity, knowledge, passion and dedication the FDC educators provide in City of Greater Bendigo and Loddon Shire.
We are lucky to have FDC educators that have been with us for over 30 years and some only three weeks.
To recognise National Family Day Care Week we’d love to introduce you to some of our amazing educators.
We thank each and every one of our educators, both past and present!
Today, let’s meet …..
Anneque Beveridge
Anneque is our newest member of the Bendigo FDC Educator team.
From the beginning Anneque has brought laughs, singing, smiles and lots of cuddles to many children.
With years of experience in the early childhood sector, Anneque brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, creativity, and warmth.
It has been a pleasure to support Anneque and her family through the transition of becoming a family day care educator and have become such a valued member of our Bendigo FDC family.
We asked Anneque to reflect on her time with Bendigo FDC:
How long have you been working for Bendigo FDC?
Approximately six weeks and it’s been a blast!
I bring with me 30+ years in the early childhood sector beginning when I was only 18 years old (I won’t tell you how old I am now though!)
Why did you choose to start an FDC service?
Sue Harkins: It’s been a pleasure to have the children and families in my home
It’s National Family Day Care Australia Week.
A time to celebrate the unique and valuable contribution the family day care sector makes for families, children and the community.
The theme for this year is ‘Every Child Is A Star’ and there are more than 107,000 children in Family Day Care across Australia.
Our Bendigo Family Day Care team wants to celebrate the diversity, knowledge, passion and dedication the FDC educators provide in City of Greater Bendigo and Loddon Shire.
We are lucky to have FDC educators that have been with us for over 30 years and some only three weeks.
To recognise National Family Day Care Week our Family Day Care team would love to introduce you to some of our amazing educators.
We thank each and every one of our educators, both past and present!
Today, let’s meet …..
Sue Harkins
Sue is a strong, well-known personality in the Longlea/Axedale area.
A valuable member of the Axedale CFA as a volunteer firefighter and the bridgade’s Communications and Community Engagement Officer.
Juggling being the ‘CEO’ of her family business Harkins Electrical, she is definitely a busy woman.
Sue’s unique farm environment and bush setting provides children with the wonders of living on a hobby farm adjacent to the magnificent Wellsford State Forest.
In the time we have known Sue, we have enjoyed sheep, lambs, pigs, cows, guinea pigs, dogs, kangaroos, wallabies and a mighty huge python!
Sue offers the warm knee of a loving Nan and Mum and has cuddles on offer for all her children over the 26 years!
We asked Sue to reflect on her time with Bendigo Family Day Care:
How long of you been working for Bendigo FDC?
I’ve been registered with Bendigo FDC since 1995, predominantly full-time with all age groups.
School holidays are especially fun with the school age children in care!
Why did you choose to start an FDC service?
Pam Moore: The connections and relationships you build with families are long lasting
It’s National Family Day Care Australia Week.
A time to celebrate the unique and valuable contribution the family day care sector makes for families, children and the community.
The theme for this year is ‘Every Child Is A Star’ and there are more than 107,000 children in Family Day Care across Australia.
Our Bendigo Family Day Care team wants to celebrate the diversity, knowledge, passion and dedication the FDC educators provide in City of Greater Bendigo and Loddon Shire.
We are lucky to have FDC educators that have been with us for over 30 years and some only three weeks.
To recognise National Family Day Care Week we’d love to introduce you to some of our amazing educators.
We thank each and every one of our educators, both past and present!
Today, let’s meet …..
Pam Moore
Pam is an educator that always brings a smile and a warm hug.
You can often arrive to Pam’s White Hills home with delicious smells from the veggie and herb garden and the children exploring her mortar and pestle herb concoctions.
Pam is a lover of the outdoors, especially for children and can be heard laughing and singing ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ with great exuberance!
How Long have you been working with Bendigo FDC?
15 years. I began in 2006.
Why did you choose to start a FDC Service?
