FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
31 October 2003

Australian Red Cross, Victoria opening new office in Bendigo

The Member for Bendigo East, Jacinta Allan, will officially open Australian Red Cross, Victoria's newest office at 28 Mollison Street, Bendigo today 31 October 2003 at 11.30am. Australian Red Cross has played an important role in Bendigo and North West Victoria since 1965 providing essential community and emergency services.

Red Cross is looking to continue to grow its programs offered in the region and is working on developing strong relationships and alliances with local organisations to ensure ongoing success in the area. Examples of how Australian Red Cross is active in the Bendigo area include:
Community Services; Discussions are progressing with Bendigo Healthcare Group to run the Assistance and Care in the Emergency ward (ACE) Program at the local hospital where trained volunteers can offer care and support to those waiting for treatment.

The Victorian Youth Development Program (VYDP) currently operates out of Weeroona High School and promotes the development of leadership skills for young people. ARCV was recently recognised as the Best Practice Provider for the VYDP program across Victoria. 

Patient Transport volunteers ensure that people get to and from essential medical appointments locally and in Melbourne as required.
Y connect? is a youth based program that offers volunteer experience specifically for young people including social and recreational based experiences. Australian Red Cross, Victoria is looking to expand this program into the Bendigo community.

Emergency Services; A strong relationship exists between the local emergency services providers and the local Red Cross unit. Catering volunteers provide food for emergency personnel during times of disaster. Registration volunteers record details of those evacuated from their homes due to emergencies.

"I am very excited to open the new Red Cross offices. It is important that we have agencies such as this to ensure that the community is able to receive such valuable care and programs. The new location of the offices means that Red Cross is more accessible than ever," said The Hon. Jacinta Allan.

Australian Red Cross, Victoria Executive Director Andrew Hilton said: "Red Cross can provide the Bendigo community with the opportunity to be involved with the largest humanitarian organisation in the world. At the same time there is considerable volunteer capacity and community need in the area. What we want to do is compliment and build on what already exists."

-ENDS-