Rochester and Elmore District Health Service launched its two new commuter buses, with (from left) Horizon Committee vice president Hayley Lawton, president Garet Stobaus, REDHS community care director Mebin Baby, Community Bank Elmore, Lockington and Rochester executive officer Lauren Ross and REDHS clinical services director Meaghan Douglas. Photos: Emily Donohoe.
Rochester and Elmore District Health Service is now more connected than ever, welcoming two new commuter buses to its fleet.
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A work-in-progress for more than two years, the nine-seater vehicles will transport residents to services, appointments and social outings.
REDHS community care director Mebin Baby said the buses, which replaced their flood-damaged counterparts, would improve connectedness between the health service and wider region.
“These two new flashy buses ... have been fully retrofitted with wheelchair access to serve a community to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many,” he said.
“These are not just buses but a symbol of inclusion, accessibility and the community spirit.”
The new vans each have nine seats and are wheelchair accessible.
Photo by
Emily Donohoe
Funding for the vehicles was supported by the Horizon Committee through its Great Postie Bike Adventure, the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, Community Bank Elmore, Lockington and Rochester, and Bendigo Bank Community Enterprise Foundation.
Community Bank executive officer Lauren Ross explained that after the October 2022 floods, Bendigo Bank Community Enterprise Foundation supported the appeal that helped fund the project.
“We’ve got funding available to help with something that will make a big impact on flood recovery now but also into the future,” she said.
“It took a little bit of brainstorming and back-and-forth, but (former REDHS chief executive) Karen Laing ultimately came up with the plan that the two commuter buses would be helpful.
“It was ourselves, but also Bendigo Bank’s foundation ... their appeal was open to everyone in Australia.”
Yalukang Aged Care team member Robyn Moffitt explains the van’s features to resident Mary Cavallaro.
Photo by
Emily Donohoe
Mr Baby highlighted the value of the buses for residents’ and consumers’ connectivity, especially to keep them socially engaged.
He said this benefited not only the individuals, but the REDHS team, including carers.
“In terms of social support groups, some of these people only see anybody else when they are coming to these outings,” Mr Baby said.
“For some, it’s the only opportunity for their carers to get some carer relief.
“It reduces social isolation.”
REDHS staff, residents and Community Bank Elmore, Lockington and Rochester executive officer Lauren Ross (right) celebrate the new additions.
Photo by
Emily Donohoe
REDHS volunteers have already completed driver training, so they are ready to hit the road in the new buses.
Mr Baby said additional volunteers could support a future shuttle bus program.
“The more the better, because we can start offering additional services for medical appointments,” he said.
“A few shuttle trips in a day, so that people can organise their appointments according to the shuttle trips.”
Volunteer opportunities are always open at the health service, and expressions of interest can be made by calling 5484 4400 or emailing volunteers@redhs.com.au
Horizon Committee vice president Hayley Lawton, president Garet Stobaus, REDHS community care director Mebin Baby, Community Bank Elmore, Lockington and Rochester executive officer Lauren Ross and REDHS clinical services director Meaghan Douglas.
Photo by
Emily Donohoe
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