KERANG District Health (KDH) has completed significant upgrades to its theatre complex, made possible through a $3 million grant from the 2023–24 Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.
The funding supported essential renovations, including the refurbishment of the central sterile supply department, the expansion of the post anaesthesia care unit to accommodate two bed bays, and the replacement of critical, outdated equipment—most notably, the operating table.
To enable construction, the theatre complex was temporarily closed in September 2024, re-opening in late May 2025. Despite some minor delays, the project has now been finalised, and theatre lists have recommenced at KDH.
KDH chief executive Kellie Byron-Gray said the team is extremely pleased with the project’s outcome.
“The new and upgraded infrastructure at Kerang District Health will help ensure that more local residents can access surgery close to home,” she said.
Ms Byron-Gray also highlighted the strengthening of the local surgical and anaesthetic workforce.
“One of our local GPs, Dr Gerry Guimaraes, completed training in GP Anaesthetics in Bendigo during 2024 and is now providing anaesthetic services in Kerang and Swan Hill, in addition to his part-time work at Kerang Medical Clinic,” she said.
KDH bid farewell to Mr Modak, general surgeon and Dr Peter Keppel, GP Anaesthetist in 2024. Mr Modak has returned to India to be closer to family and Dr Keppel has retired after a wonderful career in rural healthcare.
KDH has welcomed the return of Mr Kaushik Joshi, who is once again providing general surgery services. He is joined by new general surgeon Mr Radha Nair. Both surgeons also offer services in Swan Hill, further enhancing access to care in the region.
“Mr Stephen Lindsay will continue to provide Urology services at KDH and later in 2025, we hope to welcome gynaecology surgery back to Kerang. Private dental surgery will also return,” Ms Byron-Gray said.
This redevelopment marks a significant step forward in ensuring timely and local access to high-quality surgical care for the Kerang and broader Gannawarra community.
Ms Byron-Gray, on behalf of the board of directors, said she wishes to acknowledge the fantastic collaborative work of the KDH staff, the external project managers and the Searle Bros construction team who delivered an excellent result.
“The next major project for Kerang District Health is the construction of three new townhouses in Shadforth Street which commences next week,” Ms Byron-Gray said.
“Provision of modern housing is crucial to attract and retain skilled workers to Kerang so this is another exciting project.”
The townhouses are due to be completed by June 2026 and have been funded by the Victorian Regional Worker Accommodation Grant and a small co-contribution from KDH.
