News

A new dental facility has officially opened at Barwon Health North, relocating the service from Corio Community Health Centre to a modern, purpose-built space.

Located at Norlane, the nine-chair facility is now providing improved oral health services, sporting larger rooms, a hoist for people using wheelchairs, a state-of-the-art sterilising and re-processing room for infection prevention, and greater capacity to host dentistry students.

This move was made possible by a $5.3 million investment, backed by the Victorian State Government and a multi-million dollar contribution from donors to Project North, the Barwon Health Foundation's community fundraising campaign.

Since its relocation to Norlane, staff and patients have welcomed the modern, spacious setting, brighter ambiance and improved accessibility for families, interpreters, and caregivers.

Locating the dental service at Barwon Health North is helping connect patients to other services such as the Urgent Care Centre and specialist clinics at the facility.

Quotes attributable to A/Prof Michael Smith, Director Oral Health Barwon Health

“Corio was one of the first Community Health Centres and has served the local community very well for 50 years, but it was time for this service to move to a clinic that is better equipped to meet contemporary standards for dental care.”

“We know poor oral health is associated with many other health conditions, so improving access to dental care for people in the northern suburbs is an important step towards enhancing the health and wellbeing of our community.”

"We’re grateful for the support of the donors, and government funding, that has enabled us to realise this vision of modernised dental care that meets contemporary standards and addresses the evolving needs of our community.”

Quotes attributable to Francis Trainor, Acting Executive Director, Barwon Health Foundation

“Barwon Health Foundation and its community, supporters and partners are proud to see fundraising efforts for the Project North Appeal come to fruition today. The Project North Appeal was all about providing that extra level of support to the people of Geelong’s northern suburbs, who deserve the very best health and wellbeing.”

“Our $2 million contribution to the new Barwon Health North dental facility is a prime example of the value of philanthropy and how co-funding can help significant projects for the community be established quickly. We’re so thankful for all who donated to this appeal, in support of healthier futures for our community.”