General News
8 March, 2025
Lions clubs combine for cancer care
LIONS clubs in Wedderburn, Inglewood and Charlton have been recognised for helping raise $2.85 million to install cutting-edge cancer treatment technology at Bendigo’s St John of God Hospital. Representatives from the three clubs joined Inglewood...
LIONS clubs in Wedderburn, Inglewood and Charlton have been recognised for helping raise $2.85 million to install cutting-edge cancer treatment technology at Bendigo’s St John of God Hospital.
Representatives from the three clubs joined Inglewood Community Bank directors and other donors to the hospital’s appeal when the da Vinci Xi surgical robot was unveiled on Friday.
St John of God says the equipment marks a transformative milestone in healthcare for the region and promises to enhance patient care.
The launch was celebrated with a special morning tea, bringing together key community leaders, major donors, and supporters to mark this significant achievement.
The da Vinci Xi will enable minimally invasive surgeries that were previously only accessible in metropolitan centres, improving patient outcomes and reducing recovery times.
The first surgery using the da Vinci Xi is scheduled for March 12 led by Associate Professor Janelle Brennan.
“Surgical robots are the future for many medical procedures, and it can’t come a moment too soon for our patients and community,” said hospital CEO Michael Hogan.
“For too long, patients in Bendigo and surrounding areas have had to travel to Melbourne for advanced cancer surgeries. “The da Vinci Xi will also serve as a vital tool in training the next generation of surgeons, making Bendigo a magnet for top surgical talent.”