Central Highlands Rural Health (CHRH) has once again been named a finalist in the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards, in the Premier's Small Health Service of the Year category.

This marks the fourth consecutive year CHRH has been recognised as a finalist, having previously been shortlisted in 2023, 2024 and 2025. This ongoing recognition reflects our commitment to delivering safe, personal, connected and right care across our communities.

In 2024, CHRH won the award for Excellence in Public Sector Residential Aged Care Services and in 2017 won the award for Small Health Service of the Year (as Kyneton District Health Service).

The Premier's Small Health Service of the Year category celebrates excellence in leadership, governance, innovation and service delivery across Victoria's public health sector. As a statewide award, it recognises the outstanding work being delivered by public health services in communities large and small across the state.

This year, we are honoured to be recognised alongside Terang & Mortlake Health Service and West Wimmera Health Service. Both organisations have demonstrated outstanding leadership and innovation in delivering high-quality healthcare for their communities, making this a strong field of finalists.

CHRH Chief Executive Officer Maree Cuddihy said the recognition belongs to every member of the organisation.

"To be recognised as a finalist for the fourth year in a row is an incredible achievement and a testament to the dedication, professionalism and compassion of our people," Ms Cuddihy said.

"Every day, our staff, volunteers and partners work together to ensure our communities receive the best possible care. This recognition reflects the collective effort of everyone across CHRH and the trust our communities place in us."

Winners will be announced at the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards Gala Night in October.

Victorian Public Healthcare Awards history

Central Highlands Rural Health was formed through the amalgamation of Kyneton District Health Service and Hepburn Health Service in November 2019. Recognition at the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards has spanned more than a decade and reflects the dedication of staff, volunteers and communities across all CHRH campuses.