The Casterton community is being invited to meet face-to-face with Board Directors to discuss plans to explore a voluntary merger of local health services. The Boards of Casterton Memorial Hospital (CMH) and Western District Health Service (WDHS) will be hosting two events in Casterton to give locals the opportunity to speak directly with directors from both health services. As part of ongoing consultation, Board Directors Jess McIntosh (CMH) and Judy McDonald (WDHS), will be at the Glenelg Inn Hotel Pub from 2-3.30pm on Sunday May 25 for an informal chat about the exploration to merge the health services and the future of local healthcare. On Tuesday June 3 there will be a community round table at Youth HQ from 11am-3pm for people to drop in and have a chat with board directors about proposal. CMH and WDHS earlier this month announced their intent to explore a voluntary merger, with the aim of improving access to care and ensuring long-term sustainability. The health services want the community to help shape the future of local healthcare as they explore the potential benefits of a voluntary merger. The boards of both health services are encouraging staff, patients, residents, and community members to have their say and help guide the process. CMH Board Chair Greg Hart encouraged community members to come along to the May 25 and June 3 meetings, ask questions, share feedback, or simply listen and learn more. “Whether it’s a question about local services or an idea on what a merger might mean, these sessions will offer a relaxed and welcoming setting for open dialogue,” Mr Hart said. After announcing their plans to explore a merger earlier this month, both Boards are encouraging staff, patients, residents, and community members to have their say and help guide the process. WDHS Board Chair Anna Sweeney said hearing directly from the people who use and support these health services was essential to making the right decision. “We know how much our staff and communities care about their local health services. This is your opportunity to share ideas, ask questions and tell us what matters to you. Your voice will help shape the future of healthcare in our region,” Ms Sweeney said. Community members are encouraged to get involved by: – Completing a short online survey available via the WDHS and CMH websites. Hardcopy versions of the feedback form are available at WDHS campus receptions (Hamilton, Penshurst, Coleraine) and in Casterton at CMH reception and the pharmacy. – Reading through the FAQs to learn more. – Joining WDHS and CMH Board members for ‘Community Cuppa’s’ and other events in Casterton, Hamilton, Penshurst, or Coleraine. Mr Hart reassured the community that no decision has been made, and their feedback will play an important role in shaping the outcome. “We haven’t made any decisions yet – we’re simply exploring what a merger might mean and what it could look like. We really hope everyone will take a few minutes to share their views, whether that’s in-person over a cuppa or online.” “We want to make sure that if we move forward, it’s because it’s the right decision — one that strengthens local healthcare, supports our staff and communities, and protects the unique strengths of each organisation. That’s why it’s so important we hear from as many people as possible during this process,” Mr Hart said. For more information, or to have your say, visit: www.wdhs.net or www.castertonmemorialhospital.com.au

The Boards of Casterton Memorial Hospital (CMH) and Western District Health Service (WDHS) have announced their intent to explore a voluntary merger, with the aim of improving access to care and ensuring long-term sustainability. This is seen as a natural progression of the successful collaboration already in place through the Dual Chief Executive model, which has been working well since 2023. CMH Board Chair Greg Hart said a potential merger would build on strong foundations while preserving what makes each organisation unique. “If a merger goes ahead, the Boards are committed to ensuring that both services keep their identity, and the unique qualities that make them such an important part of their communities,” Mr Hart said. “At the same time, we believe a more formal partnership could strengthen our health services by improving service sustainability, increasing investment in staff and facilities, and ensuring we can continue to deliver quality care close to home.” WDHS Board Chair Anna Sweeney said the exploration reflects a shared commitment to the future of healthcare in the region. “The success of the Dual Chief Executive model has shown us what can be achieved when we work together,” Ms Sweeney said. “Exploring a merger allows us to take the next step in formalising this partnership, with the goal of improving access to care, enhancing services, and supporting our staff, patients and communities into the future.” If approved, the merger would result in a single governance Board with representatives from both organisations, ensuring local voices continue to guide decisions and reflect the needs of the community. Most importantly, patients and residents will keep receiving the same great care at their local facility, from the staff they know and trust. There will be no job cuts or reduction in services. Staff will stay in their current roles and locations, unless they’re interested in taking up new opportunities as part of an expanded service. The Boards will now begin a detailed due diligence and community and staff consultation process, with updates and opportunities for feedback to be provided throughout. “We know how important local healthcare is to our communities,” Ms Sweeney said. “That’s why this process is being undertaken with great care, transparency and a genuine desire to strengthen health services in our region.” Cuppas, meetings and other opportunities for the community to have their say will be announced in the coming weeks. “We encourage everyone to be part of the conversation as we explore what is best for the future of healthcare in our region,” Mr Hart said. For more information and to provide your feedback on the merger exploration, please visit www.castertonmemorialhospital.com or www.wdhs.net