The Daylesford Hospital has provided greatly valued health services for our local community for almost 160 years. During that time much has changed as hospital services, care practice, and standards moved with technology and the Hospital has adapted, where possible, to these changes.  The hospital building has remained largely unchanged, and our community is at real risk of being left behind and unable to access many vital health care services.

It is very likely that you and your family and friends have experienced the wonderful health care provided by the Daylesford Hospital staff, or one day will. A modern local hospital will importantly enhance the liveability and prosperity of Daylesford and its surrounds.

If we are to retain our local hospital, the building  must be upgraded. This will be a major multi-staged project. 

The first step is the development of a masterplan, which is estimated at $100,000. No money is provided by State Government for the masterplan. We aim to raise this amount by Christmas in partnership with our local community and the support of the Daylesford Community Bank.

The masterplan will set the priorities for the hospital upgrade, and will include:

·       Sterilization facilities

·       Operating theatre re-build

·       Increased space for dialysis

·       Replacement of shared rooms and ensuites with single rooms

·       Improved disability access.

The costs for the separate elements will be laid out and scheduled in the masterplan. While the total upgrade cost is yet to be known, it will be substantial.

The second step will be seeking a commitment from both the current Government and the Opposition to fund the entire project within the term of the next government.

The third step will be the delivery of a fully upgraded Daylesford Hospital that will continue to meet the health needs of our community for decades to come.

Each of us can play a vital part in making this happen. Will you help ensure the Hospital’s future? Please donate to fund the masterplan. The Daylesford Community Bank has committed $1 for every $3 raised by the community (with the total amount capped at $25,000) and we are reporting progress through our fundraising thermometer located in the foyer of the Bank and the Hospital. 

If you would like us to keep you informed of progress with this very important project, or if you would like further information about how else you can support the campaign please email  me on lesley.hewitt55@gmail.com 

Kind Regards

 Cr Lesley Hewitt

September 2021

Committee Members are:

Cr Lesley Hewitt (chair) David Hall, John King, Danny Moynihan, Kathleen Murray, Kate Redwood, David Stagg, Celia Waldron